Firefighters from six departments responded late Saturday night to a commercial structure fire that destroyed a warehouse at McDaniel Heating and Air in Collinsville.
The Collinsville and Whitesboro fire departments were dispatched at approximately 11:10 p.m. Aug. 1 to the business in the 1800 block of U.S. Highway 377.
According to Collinsville Fire Chief Damon Stewart, the first unit to arrive found, “a large commercial structure with heavy fire involvement and flames showing from three sides of the building.”
Collinsville firefighters quickly began what Stewart called “an aggressive fire attack” while establishing a coordinated incident command.
Because of the size of the warehouse and the extent of the fire, Stewart requested a second alarm, bringing additional firefighters and equipment from the Tioga, Sadler, Indian Creek and Gunter fire departments.
“Firefighters from the responding agencies worked together for several hours to contain the fire, prevent further extension and ultimately bring the incident under control,” Stewart said.
Crews remained at the scene throughout the night conducting overhaul operations, extinguishing hot spots and ensuring the property was safe before clearing the scene.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Stewart credited the successful response to the cooperation among area departments.
“The Collinsville Fire Department would like to thank our mutual aid partners for their rapid response, professionalism and commitment throughout this incident,” Stewart said. “Their assistance was instrumental in bringing this fire under control while protecting surrounding properties and the community.”
Despite the loss of the warehouse, the business has continued operating.
Holly Odell of McDaniel Heating and Air said the company remains open and serving customers.
“We appreciate everyone’s thoughts and prayers,” Odell said.
