TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Cleanup and restoration efforts are well underway one week after a massive fire ripped through the Amphitheatre nightclub in Ybor City.
Despite the devastating damage to one building, the work of Tampa Fire rescue crews saved the rest of the historic block from burning.
“I got down here and it was total mayhem,” said Tabanero Cigars manager Jim Collins, who watched crews battle the fierce fire for hours.
Collins truly thought he was watching his livelihood go up in smoke, but miraculously, it was business as usual Wednesday, with dozens of cigars being rolled as they have for years.READ MORE: Businesses cleared to reopen after Ybor nightclub fire
“Our store, we had absolutely nothing. We had no smoke, no water. I mean, it’s a miracle pretty much. I think that Mr. Ybor was looking over us,” Collins said.
Dozens of Tampa firefighters were also protecting residents. The crews used a variety of tactics to contain and ultimately put out the blaze.
“It was repetitive entries and different tactics that were done in order to reduce the opportunity for spread along the avenue. It’s just a credit to them for their diligence, their hard work and their perseverance,” Tampa Fire Operations Chief Nick Locicero said.
Fighting the fire was a methodical process, as firefighters used both water streams and the open air construction of the building to their advantage.READ MORE: Drinking photo of welder who started Ybor City fire angers business owners
“I’m fourth-generation Ybor City. My grandparents banked in this building. The first time they ever danced was in Carne Chop House, so these buildings mean a great deal to me. Breathing life back into them was important and I hate to see anything happen to them,” said Jason Fernandez, who owns Tequilas Taqueria & Tequila Bar, which sits adjacent to the Amphitheatre.
Fernandez is so grateful for the hard work of the Tampa firefighters. He is planning a special dinner to personally thank these brave men and women.
“There were three stations involved and we want to make sure that they know they are appreciated,” Fernandez said.
The fire caused $600,000 in damage, officials said.READ MORE: Accidental fire causes $600,000+ damage to Ybor nightclub
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