Barn fire investigation has ended

Peabody Police Chief Bruce Burke announced Monday that law enforcement officials have ended their investigation into the cause of the structure fire Jan. 30 that destroyed the historic McKercher barn behind the home at 311 North Maple in Peabody.

The barn, which belonged to Duke and Beth Eldridge caught fire near dawn and was fully engulfed by the time firefighters arrived on the scene.

The barn was more than 100 years old and was likely one of the oldest buildings in Peabody. It was destroyed and two nearby homes suffered some heat and smoke damage.

“We have closed the investigation,” Burke said. “Warrants have been issued and arrests are pending at this time.”

No further information was available.

The investigation was a joint effort between local police, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the State Fire Marshal, and Marion County Sheriff.