FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chardon Plaza Saved, As Bostwick's Hardware Store Burns
By Capt. John Blauch
12/22/99 -- Chardon, Ohio
A Chardon landmark was a total loss after an early morning fire destroyed a
hardware store, and threatened an entire shopping plaza in 16 degree
weather. The fire, originating in the Bostwick's Hardware Store, was
discovered shortly before 7am this date. Thirteen departments, the Red
Cross, and other public safety entities were eventually called to the scene of
this three-alarm MABAS Box fire.
The fire was discovered as it vented through the front windows of the
store. Chief Larry Gaspar was first on the scene, and initially believed
the entire plaza was ablaze, as smoke followed a common facade to each end of
the plaza. Smoke billowed out of the plaza for hours, as TV helicopters
filmed the spectacular sight from above. At the height of the blaze, it is
estimated that over 5000 gallons of water per minute were being pumped on the
fire. Four aerial units, four engines, two air trucks, and several other
pieces of apparatus were eventually used to douse the blaze. Major damage
was confined to the hardware store, which was a total loss. The adjacent
bank and deli received water damage, but are expected to reopen soon.
The Chardon Fire Department wishes to thank all of the Lake and Geauga County
public safety departments that assisted on this call. Without the combined
efforts of these departments, the plaza could have become a total loss.
Post notes: The Chardon Police Department now believes that this fire
was set as part of a burglary coverup. This arson case is yet
unsolved. If you have information about this fire, please call Sgt. Scott
Hildebrand at the Chardon Police Department at (440) 286-6123.
Presently the plaza's stores are FILLED with a new Marc's store, a renovated
New York Deli, and a new PetSmart store. What was formerly the
Bostwick's store front will soon be filled by a new merchant. Chardon
Firefighters will forever remember that space to be the location of one of
the worst fires in the history of Chardon.
For More Information Contact:
Chardon Fire Department
110 S. Hambden St. Chardon, OH 44024
Tel: 440-285-4665
FAX: 440-285-8320
Internet: Capt. John Blauch
