Columbus firefighters have determined that the fire at Carpet Mania, 1428 10th St., started in the carpet business’ warehouse.
The fire, which was reported at 2:25 p.m. Wednesday, destroyed the carpet business and Deathproof CrossFit, previously known as CrossFit Retaliation, and severely damaged Advantage One Imaging Center, said Capt. Mike Wilson, Columbus Fire Department spokesman.
Eyewitness accounts, reports from first responders and evidence at the scene showed that their fire originated in the warehouse area, where heavy fire was reported when firefighters arrived, Wilson said.
Firefighters spent 29 hours at the scene putting out the fire, which had such intense conditions that the steel structure of the building failed, Wilson said. The roof to the building collapsed shortly after firefighters arrived at the scene.
There is no indication of arson or foul play in the investigation, Wilson said. Damages were estimated at $2 million to the building and contents, he said.
Firefighters are investigating the witness accounts who said the lights flickered within the three businesses prior to the fire, Wilson said. A short time later, witnesses said smoke was seen in the CrossFit gym. A carpet store employee saw flames coming through a window in the carpet warehouse and told the gym owner to evacuate the building, Wilson said. When police officers and firefighters arrived, about four minutes after being dispatched, flames were coming from a window and door of the carpet building, Wilson said.
