ROCKFORD, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) – The Corner Bar in Rockford is a total loss after an early morning fire.
Various media outlets report that fire crews were called to the iconic building on the corner of Main and Courtland Streets just before 5:00 a.m.
According to the city’s fire chief, crews were called out just before 5 a.m. Monday, August 14, to The Corner Bar, at the corner of Main and Courtland Streets. At around 6:00 a.m. an explosion was reported by crews and people at the scene. A gas main exploded in the basement of the building, but crews were not inside when it happened.
The explosion sent the flames throughout the building. Several crews from other fire departments were on the scene to assist the Rockford Fire Department.
The Corner Bar released this statement on Facebook:
To all of our friends, fans and family…
First of all, we want to give thanks that even though the fire is severe that no one was hurt. Again, we are beyond grateful that no one was hurt.
Secondly, we want to thank the amazing firefighters who have worked tirelessly to save our venerable building and the history it contains.
We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from this community and we will respond to each of your FB posts as we sort through them.
But please (share this) and let us reassure you that the Corner Bar will continue our fine history of serving the Rockford community just as soon as we get things sorted.
We will continue to keep you posted on what is going on but for now we are assessing things and giving thanks that the building was empty and our most important assets….our staff and our guests were not harmed.
