UPDATED 8:40 P.M.
Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A fire has caused extensive damage at what could be called a local landmark along Southern View’s part of Route 66.
Fire broke out around 9 a.m. Friday at the Curve Inn on 6th Street Road.
“Our crews arrived on scene minutes after that to heavy fire and smoke from the beer garden at the Curve Inn,” said Julie Plunk, assistant fire chief, who expected crews to be on scene most of the day. “There was a partial roof collapse, extensive damage. The wind gusts today have been extreme. The cause is still under investigation.
However, Plunk says the beer garden had grills, fuel tanks, and heat sources in it, so one of those may be the potential cause, or connected to the cause.
The wind — with gusts near 40 miles per hour at times Friday — definitely did no favors, said Plunk.
“The wind plays a huge factor into our operations,” said Plunk. “Luckily, there is not any exposure around here. But, any buildings close to a fire building could potentially catch fire as well. We didn’t have that problem here today, but that is a concern.”
At least two ladder trucks were used in trying to put fire out. Windows in the bar itself were knocked out on the upper levels for venting purposes. Damage did extend into the bar itself, but the extent is not yet known. The beer garden was destroyed.
Employees and owners of the Curve Inn could be seen gathering across the street, hugging and showing support for one another.
The Curve Inn says on social media there are “no words,” but they are glad no one was hurt. Other businesses and bars have shown support already as well.
Only one GoFundMe account has been set up for employees who worked there, according to sources. So far, as of 8:40 p.m. Friday, it has raised half of a $50,000 goal.
Our original story is below.
Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Springfield firefighters were called to the Curve Inn off Stevenson Drive around 9 a.m. Friday.
The cause is unknown.
Many onlookers were on hand to check out the now burned-out icon.
This story will be updated.
