What we know about the deadly fire at the National Mall

The National Mall has suffered its worst fire in decades, but there are still thousands of people at the site and authorities say the cause remains under investigation.

The fire started Thursday morning at the South Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.

As the smoke cleared, authorities said it appeared to be under control.

It quickly grew to a blaze that burned for about 15 hours before authorities declared the blaze under control at 2:24 p.m.

Thursday.

The cause of the fire was under investigation, but officials did not provide any details.

The National Mall was closed Thursday afternoon for safety reasons and will remain closed until further notice.