Fire officials remain on the scene of a suspicious fire that gutted Seaforth’s only grocery store. It broke out just before 3:00 a.m. Saturday.
Officials say the owners of the business are out of town.
Huron East Fire Chief Marty Debard says the Ontario Fire Marshal has been called in to help with the investigation. “Two reasons we call them in, large dollar loss and we feel it’s suspicious in nature.”
Debard also adds the blaze started from the outside.
Viewer video captures the raging flames from the back of the building.
Firefighters did prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring building but they weren’t able to stop it from wiping out the building.
Nearly two thirds of the municipality’s water tower was used to fight the fire. Residents are now being asked to conserve water.
The community is already dealing with job losses due to the closure of E.D. Smith. Residents say the effects of this fire will be felt for quite some time.
“It’s horrible. It just breaks your heart. All the people that are going to be out of work.” Laurie Guichelaar says.
While officials haven’t discussed the details there are talks about setting up a temporary location where residents can get the essentials.
Meanwhile, police are asking motorists and pedestrians to take alternate routes because Main Street South is closed between Crombie Street and John Street.
Huron OPP are asking anyone with information to call them at 1-888-310-1122 or (519) 524-8314.
