'All Gone': Willey Farms Produce Market Destroyed By 5-Alarm Fire In Townsend
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TOWNSEND, Del. (CBS) — Willey Farms produce market in Delaware has been reduced to rubble after an early morning blaze. The State Fire Marshal is now investigating the fire.
The fire broke out on the 4000 block of Dupont Parkway just after 2 a.m.
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A video shows the intense flames overtaking the popular market in Townsend.
It was a tough fight for fire crews from both Pennsylvania and New Jersey who joined the efforts to save the building.
The loss of Willey Farms produce market is a devastating loss to the Townsend community.
"Mom just died last year," said Allison Willey, the owner's daughter. "It's hard, you know."
It has been a staple there since 1975. The market sold everything from fresh fruit to baked goods and they were gearing up for the busy holiday season.
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However, they are confident that the staple that has served the community for over 40 years will be built again.
"There's wholesale, deli, produce, gifts, natural foods, garden center -- it's all gone," said Gretchen Willey, the owner's daughter.
The fire started in the deli around 2 a.m. Hours later, the State Fire Marshal and ATF examined the same room.
Fire officials say the biggest challenge was the lack of access to water.
"There are no fire hydrants here, so there was extensive amount of time getting additional water sources here to contain the fire," said Townsend Fire Department Public Information Officer David Hall.
Dozens of employees are now out of jobs heading into the holiday season.
"We do a big Christmas, so everybody is going to be really upset," said Gretchen Willey. "It's unbelievable."
No one was hurt in the massive blaze.
