A local couple is left to pick up the pieces after a fire destroys their Traverse City business.
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"As soon as I looked out the window there was smoke billowing out of that and then watched the roof collapse...lots of fire, " said Mike Benitez.
It happened at Wholesale Rustic Furniture on US-31 around 4:30PM Wednesday. Mike Benitez works across the street from the furniture store. He says flames shooting from the roof and a cloud of dark smoke could be seen pouring from the building.
" It was really an intense fire."
The Grand Traverse Metro Fire Chief says six people were inside at the time of the blaze. Fortunately everyone got out safely, but the fire destroyed the building. While the owners of the business are understandably emotional over their loss they want to send their sincere thanks and gratitude for the quick response and efforts put forth by the firefighters and rescue teams. The fire chief says crews were on scene in seven minutes.
" It's always tough when things like this happen. We try to provide personal assistance to them if we can," said Kevin Bavers with the American Red Cross.
Red Cross volunteers assisted the family and the firefighters as crews fought the blaze and worked to put out the hot spots.
" They need someone who can bring them water and snacks and help take care of them, " Bavers said.
It is believed that the fire started in the workshop area. The fire chief says the building is insured. No one was hurt.
