Downtown Loogootee fire nearly destroys city block

A fire devastated downtown Loogootee Wednesday.

Firefighters from Martin and Daviess County departments battled the blaze that engulfed the majority of a city block and damaged or destroyed at least seven businesses and several apartments.

According to early reports, the fire may have started in Rosie’s Shirts and Gifts from a sparking glue gun at about 10 a.m. The fire quickly spread but the business was evacuated before anyone was hurt.

Besides Rosie’s Shirt and Gifts, the businesses damaged from the fire or water from the fire fighting efforts include Laurie’s Flowers, His & Her Hair Salon, Cartridge Depot, Ippolitti Law office, Corner Café and several upstairs apartments.

No injuries have been reported.

Over 100 firefighters have responded to the fire. Traffic through the area has been diverted as the area is closed until at least 8 p.m.