Monday, March 9, 2009

By SPECIAL TO THE CITIZEN

Firefighters were called out just after 10 p.m. Sunday and had the fire under control by 1 a.m. Duval Street reopened to traffic mid-morning today, though the sidewalks remained barricaded in order to keep foot traffic safely away from the damaged building, said city spokeswoman Alyson Crean.

Two art galleries and a small restaurant were severely damaged by the fire. The San Carlos and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville sustained some smoke damage. However, both are expected to reopen quickly once the investigation is complete.

The Key West Fire Department rolled all available units, and the Naval Air Station Key West provided additional manpower in fighting the blaze.

Fires in Key West’s historic downtown can be particularly challenging, says Key West Fire Chief David Fraga.

“To find that much fire upon arrival and keep it from spreading to adjacent buildings is a testament to our firefighters’ dedication to duty,” Fraga said. “Their aggressive attack prevented what could have easily been a devastating situation.”

Fraga says the department was grateful for the assistance of firefighters from NAS Key West.

“The additional manpower was vital,” he said, “to keep our guys fresh and rehabbed.”

The state fire marshal’s office is assisting in the investigation. An early assessment didn’t reveal any signs of foul play. Fraga says the investigation could go on through the night.