St. Louis Arch Closed Today due to Fire

July 18, 2003

St. Louis Arch Closed Today due to Fire
A fire that apparently started at an electrical transformer about 50 feet from the St. Louis Gateway Arch yesterday has prompted officials to close the landmark for up to three days.

According a report on CNN.com, officials at the National Park Service said thousands of tourists were evacuated yesterday from the St. Louis Arch and the Museum of Westward Expansion beneath the landmark. A total of 8,000 visitors were evacuated.

While the cause of the electrical fire is unknown at this time, officials are ruling out any potential terrorist assumptions. NTA contacted the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission and learned the tourist attraction will definitely be closed today, and could possibly remain closed for up to three days of repairs.

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