As we’ve reported, seven local fire departments, numerous law enforcement and other emergency service agencies responded to a large fire, which destroyed the Stuart Sale Barn Sunday night.

The State Fire Marshal’s office and Stuart Police Department investigated the incident Monday and have determined the cause of the fire. The Police Department says the fire was started by a juvenile who used a cigarette lighter to ignite a hay bale. The juvenile attempted to extinguish the fire but was un-successful. They never attempted to report the fire to authorities.

The Police Department reached this conclusion by examining evidence at the scene and speaking with witnesses and the suspect. The juvenile is said to be cooperating with officers during the investigation.

The Police Department says due to the suspect’s age, the case will be referred to juvenile court for any criminal charges and the name and information related to the juvenile will not be released to the public.

Raccoon Valley Radio will bring you more information as it becomes official.