With the cause of the fire at the former Bellefonte Academy still unknown, the investigation into what started the blaze is on hold until an insurance company can assess damages and OK building re-entry.

Bellefonte fire chief Tim Knisely said the investigation is stalled because investigators are waiting for insurance company action that would allow for demolition of the building's remains.

Most of the fire has been extinguished, said Chief Fred Bruno of the Logan Fire Company in Bellefonte, but a few areas are still smoldering and could continue for a few weeks.

"It's still under investigation," Bruno said. "There are still a couple of hot spots threatening to go."

Bruno said there is still only speculation as to what started the fire. He said state fire marshals should know more when the investigation is completed and the origin is determined.

The fire, which started just before noon last Wednesday, destroyed the residences of about 36 people who lived in the former academy.

The building was converted into apartments in the 1940s.

The American Red Cross set up a shelter last Wednesday at the Bellefonte Elementary School for the building's residents.

It provided cots, food and counselors, Director of Emergency Services Bob Barry said. Only three people used the service because most of the victims had found places to stay with family and friends.

Barry added that the Red Cross is continuing to help find permanent housing for residents as well as replacing items such as drivers' licenses and social security cards.

"The lucky few walked out [of the fire] with their wallets in their back pockets," he said. "Most lost everything but the clothes on their backs."

The three people at the shelter have since found temporary housing with family and friends, he said.

State fire marshals were unavailable for comment yesterday.