The Monticello, AR Fire Department was dispatched to the 500 block of West Gaines Street shortly before 0800 hours on March 30 for a report of a commercial structure fire.
Upon arrival, the first units on scene Engines 1 and 6 found heavy smoke showing from the rear of the building.
Initial interior attack was made through a side entrance with a second attack team entering through the front of the business. A third team used a 2.5" line to apply water to the roof and extinguish the burning vinyl roof coating.
After the main body of fire was knocked down, crews found several pockets of fire in an exterior wall and awning. Fire damage was confined to the rear of the business, although the entire structure suffered smoke and/or water damage. The fire was declared out by 0930.
There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. The fire, which is believed to have started in or near the building's attic space, is still under investigation.
The Monticello Fire Department is a combination department operating four engines and a rescue from two stations. The department is staffed by 11 career and approximately 12 paid-per-call personnel. The department provides suppression coverage for the city and surrounding area while providing extrication service for the majority of Drew County.
