COWETA COUNTY, Ga. — A large fire engulfed a bakery and market between Newnan and Peachtree City Wednesday evening completely destroying its historic structure.
Firefighters responded on-scene to Heirloom Market Co. and Bakeshop in Sharpsburg after the popular bakery went up in flames. Those that work inside the building called 911 to report a fire just after 6 p.m., but fortunately everyone was able to get out safely with no injuries, according to Coweta County Fire Rescue.
Once firefighters arrived on scene, they made sure that everyone in and around the building was evacuated safely, per a Facebook post from the fire station. Authorities noted that the fire was much larger than initially realized and they quickly activated "defensive operation."
Below | Drone footage of the fire
Coweta County Fire and Rescue Chief Robby Flanagan told 11Alive's Jon Shirek that the building is a landmark in Coweta County, with the original infrastructure of the house built more than 100 years ago. Add-ons and remodels over the years have expanded it, but the building was currently home to the bakery, a furniture shop and other businesses, according to Flanagan.
Flanagan stated that firefighters did the best they could in order to save any section of the structure, but the roof eventually collapsed in and is now likely to be rendered a total loss. They are still investigating the cause of the fire.
In recent years, Flanagan noted that the location has been doing business under the "Heirloom" name, with a bake shop, boutique and roughly 50 other vendors. He said that he expects that the deep ties the landmark has within the community will urge residents to support the owners in an effort to rebuild, due to how beloved it was.
Peachtree City Fire and Police initially urged residents to avoid the area and use alternate routes away from the flames, but have now told those in the community that the fire is under control and that people should be cautious while in the area.
Residents of Coweta County went quickly to Facebook to show the busy scene:
This resident was able to capture firefighters putting out the enormous blaze at the building:
Photos | Heirloom Market Co. & Bakeshop
Fire officials said that they, along with Coweta County sheriff's deputies, will remain at the location throughout the night and through tomorrow.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
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