A fire that occurred in Pueblo, Colorado, destroyed several businesses and homes in the area. The accident, which happened June 3, was believed to have started in an office supply store, according to Colorado Springs CBS affiliate KKTV.
The flames destroyed or damaged six businesses, including a sporting goods store. Flames sparked around the shopping center at 6:40 p.m., and firefighters soon arrived on the scene. KKTV reported that a funnel of smoke could be seen from a few miles down the road, and the fire caused the roof to cave in at the shopping center. Fire department officials evacuated a nearby parking garage for fear that the fire would spread there.
Pueblo Rural Fire, Pueblo West fire and American Medical Response arrived on the scene to extinguish the flames. Gary Micheli, Pueblo Fire Department public information officer, said it took longer to extinguish everything than they were hoping for.
“We’re getting our second wind,” Micheli told The Pueblo Chieftain. “We’ll be here all night. There are still hot spots.”
Micheli said the fire may have started in the supply store Office Systems, but they were not exactly sure. KTTV reported that the fire could have been put out sooner, but the collapsed roof made it difficult to get water into the building. No injuries were reported.
After a business is damaged by a fire or a natural disaster like a storm, shop owners may need to reach into their own pockets to pay for repairs. Those who sign up for small business insurance can have some help. This coverage will help pay for repairs and legally protect business owners in case someone was injured on the premises.
