In downtown Bryan, normalcy has returned for shoppers and motorists. That’s not the case for those affected by Thursday night’s fire. The roadblocks and fire scene tape have been removed from the 200 block of North Main, opening up the street and the sidewalk on the east side.
William Bouse of the Fire Marshall’s office says the fire started in a building used for storage at 209 North Main, north of Brazos Valley Bail Bonds. He credits the quick response to a 9-1-1 call from Scott Catalana of Catalena Hatters, who working late when he noticed the smoke.
Bouse says as of midday Friday, investigators have found nothing suspicious and inspectors have found no structural problems with the buildings that would result in demolition.
Comments from William Bouse on where the fire started and how it was reported.
William Bouse comments on the inspection of the fire-damaged buildings.
Original story:
For the second time in 13 months, fire struck downtown Bryan.
Acting Fire Chief Randy McGregor says Thursday night’s fire originated at 209 North Main, the building to the north of Brazos Valley Bail Bonds. McGregor says on arrival heavy smoke was pouring out of the 209 building. Firefighters initially entered that building but McGregor says once the fire broke through the roof they exited. McGregor says a ladder truck was dispatched and the fire was attacked from a defensive position.
McGregor says on the scene were five engine companies and two ladder companies, one from College Station. McGregor says the rest of the city was covered by off-duty firefighters from Bryan and neighboring volunteer departments. No injuries were reported.
According to Downtown Bryan Association Executive Director Cassidy Barton, there was smoke and/or water damage to loft apartments to the north and the Texas Rose Boutique and Catalena Hattters to the south.
The fire closed William Joel Bryan Parkway west of Main along with Main south of WJB.
The last fire in downtown Bryan was January 2011 which destroyed Court’s Saddlery.
Click HERE for photos posted on the Bryan Fire Department’s Facebook page.
Comments from Acting Fire Chief Randy McGregor.
Comments from Downtown Bryan Association Director Cassidy Barton.
