The fire at Dot's Good Deals on Route 1 in Woolwich on March 30 was intentionally set, according to the state Fire Marshal's office. An arson investigation is underway, according to Inspector Dan Young from the office.

"We have determined the fire was intentionally set, and there is currently a criminal arson investigation underway," Young said during a telephone interview Monday afternoon.

Young said his investigation indicated the fire started inside the building, and the building was secure when the firefighters reached the scene. "It was definitely a fire started with human activity," he said.

Damage to the building, which was destroyed, was estimated at $40,000. The business sold a variety of used items, including household items, windows and doors. Fire crews from Woolwich, Wiscasset, Bath, West Bath, Dresden, Georgetown and Arrowsic fought the fire for over two hours.

Woolwich Fire Chief Jeff McCarren told the Woolwich Selectmen at their meeting Monday evening that he was very pleased with the support the town received from the fire fighters in the area, and the rerouting of the traffic by the Sagadahoc Sheriff's Department.

McCarren also commended Jack and Jason Shaw, of Jack Shaw & Sons Construction Inc., for responding so quickly in taking down part of the structure after the fire to insure public safety.

The selectmen authorized Code Enforcement Officer William Longley to notify the owner of the property in writing, that according to the town ordinance, the debris from the fire must be cleaned up within 60 days, or the owner will be in violation of the ordinance.

The selectmen indicated the debris could become a hazard if it isn't taken care of. "The sooner the better," Selectman Dale Chadbourne said.

"We have already received several complaints that debris is blowing into the road," Town Administrator Lynette Eastman told the selectmen.