Massive Fire At Gap Distribution Center In Fishkill Intentionally Set, ATF Says

FISHKILL, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Authorities say a massive fire that ripped through a Gap Inc. distribution center in Dutchess County was intentionally set.

State police said Tuesday the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives determined the origin of the fire was "incendiary."

"The ATF National Response Team has concluded that the fire was incendiary in nature," the statement reads. "This means that the fire was intentionally set. NYSP and ATF are continuing the investigation."

No other details have been released. State police and the ATF continue to investigate.

The Aug. 29 fire caused heavy damage to part of the facility in Fishkill.

Some of the distribution center's 1,300 employees were scheduled to return to work this week in other sections.

While some employees are hopeful they'll be able to get back to work soon, one woman said she'll be filling out an application at an area diner, just in case.

"There was one girl that I used to work with that had about four kids, so I just hope that they do the right thing with them," former employee Nathan Fears said. "Still continue to pay them until they get done."

County officials say Gap is paying the employees who missed out on work Tuesday. The state is working with the clothing retailer to determine if operations can be temporarily moved to another building.

The facility serves the Gap's northeast region. It opened in 2000.

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