Demolition work sparks a fire at downtown building

A downtown building scheduled for demolition caught fire Tuesday afternoon, temporarily putting a halt to the work.

The 12:55 p.m. fire at 168 W. 300 South started after demolition crews were using a torch to cut metal beams, Salt Lake Fire Capt. Devin Villa said.The crew went to lunch, unaware the sparks had started a small fire.

After returning to the vacant buildings, the crew reported the blaze.

Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire, which burned a former restaurant and office supply building.

Villa said demolition crews were expected to resume their work late Tuesday afternoon once firefighters were assured the blaze would not reignite.