Early morning fire destroys two local businesses (updated)
Two local businesses were destroyed Saturday morning (June 15) when an early morning fire broke out at Klemke’s Sausage Haus, 255 W. Garza St.
The Lubbock County Office of Emergency Management said in a statement a call came in to the Slaton Police Department Dispatch Center at 2:46 a.m. The caller, an employee of Klemke’s Sausage Haus, reported smoke in the building.
The Slaton Fire Department was dispatched, and found the building full of smoke. Firefighters initially entered and attempted to extinguish the fire inside, but conditions worsened, forcing a retreat.
The fire then spread to the Slaton Family Clinic, located next door.
Both buildings are total losses, and firefighters worked to prevent the spread of the fire to other businesses.
The Slaton Bakery building, located near the fire, was sound; however the store was closed for the day.
Chad Wilson, owner of Slaton Bakery, reported Monday the store would be closed for at least a week to assess damages and clean from the smoke.
The fire was contained to the involved buildings around 9:30 a.m., but even in late in the afternoon, firefighters were still on scene working to prevent rekindling.
Approximately 100 firefighters from 22 different stations were on scene. Several local businesses also assisted with delivering water to the scene due to low water pressure as they fought the fire.
Roads around the scene, such as the section of Garza in front of the building, are currently closed. Drivers need to look for alternate routes.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time, and the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office has been requested to help with the investigation.
Approximately 90 customers were affected by power outages caused by the fire.
Dr. Al Bendeck with Slaton Family Medical Center said said patients inquiring about appointments or information may call the clinic number at 828-1600. The number will transfer to his cell phone.
Bendeck also said they are hoping to open up Monday (June 17) at the SEDCO building for the interim. SEDCO has donated a room for appointments.
SEDCO is located at 4119, 101 N 9th St., Slaton. Patients will need to enter through the left hand side of the building.
The clinic is also currently remodeling a business by the Slaton Pharmacy.
GoFundMe pages have been set up for Klemke’s and Slaton Family Medical Center’s employees and owners. To make a donation, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/slaton-family-medical-clinic-fire and https://www.gofundme.com/klemkes
