Massive commercial fire in Haines results in estimated $3.5M in damages

HAINES, Alaska (KTUU) - A large commercial fire burned multiple shops and apartments Saturday night in the small Southeast community of Haines, leading to millions of dollars in damage.

Alaska Sate Troopers say the Haines Volunteer Fire Department and Haines Borough Police Department responded to the fire at the intersection of Haines Highway and Mud Bay.

“It was almost like an explosion coming out of that window and that and that was four minutes after it had been called in,” said building owner Mike Ward. “It got called in at 9:28, so I’m always going to have some question marks on what started that fire and and why was it so intense so quickly?"

The building included multiple businesses including the Haines' Quick Shop, Outfitter Liquor, Outfitter Sporting Goods, Mike’s Bikes & Boards. Residential apartments were filled out the second story.

Troopers say there were no injuries, and everyone made it out of the building safely, but the building and its contents were a complete loss. The damages are expected to be around $3.5 million.

Ward said all businesses that caught fire were destroyed in the blaze.

“We were just all stocked up good and had a bunch of new products out on the shelves and they’re all burned up now," Ward said.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy said in a Facebook post, “Our hearts go out to those who lost their homes and businesses in this devastating event.”

A Deputy Fire Marshal is assisting with investigating the cause of the fire.

Troopers say there were no initial signs of criminal activity, and this is an ongoing investigation.

Ward owns other businesses throughout Haines and says he will continue to serve his customers as best he can and rebuild what the fire destroyed. Ward also said he’s thankful to the outpouring of community support.

“We’re going to try to fill the voids, take care of our customers and keep our employees going,“ Ward said. ”The Haines Volunteer Fire Department did an amazing job, and the community has really been supportive. And, you know, at times like this, small communities really come together, and Haines is really good for that. So it’s been a tough time, but you know, there’s been a lot of camaraderie and a lot of showing people have your back, and a lot of love in the community."