The devastating fire that struck Market Street March 2 remains under investigation by the Barnesville Fire Department and the state fire marshal’s office one week later and arson has not been ruled out, according to BFD chief Kelvin Chute.
“We have ruled out natural gas lines and fryers but the investigation is ongoing,” Chute said over the weekend. Investigators have pulled security video from neighboring businesses and churches and are poring over them looking for clues. The buildings cannot be released for demolition until that investigation is complete.
The fire, first called in by residents of an apartment building at the corner of Main and Market streets, originated in Mama D’s restaurant at about 11 p.m. City and county firefighters along with a team from Pike County battled the wind-driven blaze for hours before bringing it under control. At one point, there were 30 to 40-foot ‘firenadoes’ roaring out of the conflagration, the chief said.
The restaurant and Goggan’s Florist next door were completely destroyed with roofs fallen in. Two firewalls dating back to the 1880s held but neighboring businesses suffered smoke and water damage and disruptions in utility services. Those include the Everything Beautiful store, Pasley, Nuce law office, a vacant building and Bankston’s Barber Shop.
Goggan’s Florist is operating out of Buck Naked deer cooler temporarily but owner Nolan Rampey vows to rebuild on the same site. Barbers and stylists from Bankston’s have been taken in by other salons while repairs are made.
A fire recovery fund has been set up to assist affected businesses raise money to cover insurance deductibles and other expenses associated with the fire.
A benefit concert is set for Friday, March 20 from 5-9 p.m. at Ritz Park. The concert coincides with the previously scheduled Food Truck Friday event at the park. The band lineup includes The B Strings, Family Ties Band and The Kats Band. Monitor barnesville.com for updates.
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