Fire crews in Franklin County are investigating the cause of a massive fire that destroyed Dill’s Food City in Royston.
The fire broke out just after midnight on Saturday, Feb. 17. Firefighters from multiple counties and cities responded to the call. The grocery store was fully engulfed in flames when they arrived, according to Royston Mayor Keith Turman.
Firefighters managed to contain the blaze, sparing all of the other stores in the shopping center on Cook Street.
Dozens of first responders spent more than nine hours on the scene. Crews are now using heavy machinery to sort through the rubble.
A ‘horrific loss’
Investigators believe the fire started in the back of the grocery store after hours, WSB-TV reports. Speaking with reporters, Royston Fire Chief Matt Elrod said there were some cookers in the back corner of the building. “I don’t know if one of those shorted out,” he said.
One firefighter was reportedly treated for smoke inhalation.
Dill’s was one of two grocery stores in Royston. Mayor Turman expressed his gratitude to all of the firefighters who helped battle the fire. In a social media post, he credited their “bravery and efforts” with saving the adjacent buildings.
“My heart aches with pain for this horrific loss for the Dilworth family, its employees, and our community,” he said. “Please keep us in your prayers.”
