An early morning fire has caused heavy damage to the roof and interior of Jerry's Cafe & Bar in downtown Orrville, OH. The fire was initially reported by a passerby around 4:15am. It appeared to start at Jerry's and then spread to Runion's Furniture.
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| The Orrville Fire Department and some mutual aid departments remain on the scene this morning. While I was inside Runion's, an additional smoldering hot spot was identified, so work will be continuing there for some time. |
Firefighters dug a trench in the roof of Jerry's when they arrived to let the fire escape that way. The State Fire Marshall is currently in Jerry's and would not allow photographs at the time I was there.
The fire came out of exhaust fans on the side of the restaurant and caught the Runion's Furniture roof on fire. Runion's has a tin ceiling with blown in insulation above, so the fire spread through the insulation. Contrary to an earlier published report, the roof did not cave in--it was pulled down by firefighters.
There was also a rumor that Ron's Barber Shop was destroyed as well. Thanks to the skillful work of the Orrville Fire Department and several surrounding departments providing mutual aid, Ron's suffered no damage whatsoever. The barber shop is a wood frame building, built in 1870, and is supported by a wood timber foundation. Ironically, the sale of the barber shop to Ron's long-time employee was being finalized this morning.
Lieutenant Jeff Lorson, Chief Information Officer for the Orrville Fire Department, shares the very latest about what is known of the fire.
Below are pictures and video of the interior of Runion's Furniture. This is the room where the fabric samples hung on the far wall.
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| The streaks you see are from insulation that continues to fall. |
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| I talked with a number of people who couldn't say enough about the great work the fire fighters have done at this fire. |
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| Most of the tin ceiling in this area had to come down. |
This a terrible tragedy for two business who are loved not just for their products but because of the people who own them and work there. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jack Runion, Jerry Demlow and all those affected by these fires. We support you and trust that you will be back and better than ever soon.
Life can turn in a second - so grateful no injuries and so thankful for our fire department. Thoughts and prayers to Jerry and Jack and all the folks who work for and with them.
ReplyDeleteHelen Meyers
Terrible tragedy, but one that highlights the beauty of a small town. Where else could the fire department sound the alarm at 4:21am and be on the scene at 4:23am?
ReplyDeleteGreat job OFD, and thanks so much to our 6 neighboring towns for pitching in!
Jerry, Jack, and others directly affected - Many prayers will be flooding heaven for things to quickly normalize for you again.
jb
Dear Jerry, Jack and all the employees affected by this tragedy,
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers go out to you from Texas. We are so happy there were no injuries.
Thank you to all the area fire fighters who can always be counted on to do an outstanding job!
We wish a rapid recover for you all.
Debbie and Rick Smith