GUYMON, OKLA. -- Two businesses and several offices were destroyed after downtown Guymon erupted in flames Sunday morning.
The Guymon Fire Department says it was notified of the structure fire at 7:44 Sunday morning. Upon arrival, firefighters say smoke was very heavy and the fire was on the second floor of the building.
"This was a very difficult fire to fight due to the building construction and the high potential for collapse", said Assistant Fire Chief Grant Wadley.
The second floor of the building was completely destroyed by the fire and as a result, firefighter had to evacuate the building. Portions of the roof collapsed into the second story and the fire had to be fought from outside using water lines into windows.
"It took firefighters approximately 6 hours to gain control of the fire and the remainder of the afternoon and evening extinguishing smoldering areas", Wadley said.
Fire officials say they believe the fire was started due to an electrical problem but the investigation continues. The fire cost an estimated $1 million.
The building, known as the Nash Building, was constructed in 1947 and is owned by Hal Clark of Guymon. It included popular downtown Guymon businesses, Pub on the Bricks and the Ropeman Clothing Store. Several attorney's offices and individual private offices were also located in the building on the second floor, where the majority of the fire and collapse damage was located.
During the fire, three firefighters suffered minor injuries. Two were treated and released at the scene and one was treated and released at the hospital with a hand injury.
