Columbia firefighters rushed to the scene of an overnight structure fire in the 1600 block of East Business Loop 70. The blaze was reported just after 2:13 a.m. on Friday, and firefighters quickly sprang into action to find a construction trailer ablaze. Despite their best efforts, one firefighter was injured and taken to the hospital for treatment.
The Columbia Fire Department has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, with fire marshals working tirelessly to determine how it started. Nine Columbia fire units and a total of 18 personnel responded to the scene to extinguish the flames and ensure the safety of those around them. East Business Loop 70 between Paris Road and Edison Street was closed by 2:29 a.m., and reopening times were not immediately clear.
According to Boone County Joint Communications, no other injuries were reported at the scene. Firefighters worked diligently to put out the blaze, but one unfortunate incident left one colleague in need of medical attention. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but it’s clear that these brave men and women risk their lives every day to keep us safe from harm.
