Update 1:13 p.m. 3/18:
The State Fire Marshal's Office has released preliminary findings in its investigation into the Gatesville Historic District fire, concluding the blaze originated in the Gatesville Messenger building, not the bail bond building at the southwest corner of the courthouse square, where smoke was first visible.
Investigators have ruled out criminal intent or any other intentional cause, though the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.
In the wake of the fire, the City of Gatesville has outlined steps to address safety and recovery. City contractors have placed a perimeter fence around the area to keep people at a safe distance from unstable remaining structures while the insurance claim process and eventual demolition are completed.
The city is also directing affected property owners to resources available through the Texas Department of Emergency Management and says it will continue to support those property owners as they recover.
Update 5:37 p.m. 3/17:
Gatesville police say that Highway 84 is open again in both directions.
Update 1:30 p.m. 3/17:
Coryell County Judge Roger Miller has signed an local disaster declaration order for the Gatesville Historic District fire.
The declaration opens state assistance, recovery crews and additional emergency operations for the city. The fire has burned a block around the courthouse square downtown.
Original story 3/16:
Dozens of fire crews are battling a major fire in downtown Gatesville on the west side of the Square in downtown Gatesville.
The City of Gatesville posting to their Facebook advising about traffic alerts and public adversaries.
Traffic Alert:
• U.S. Route 84 (Main Street) is closed through downtown
• Traffic is being diverted at:
• Lutterloh (east side)
• Levita Road (west side)
Public Advisory:
Drivers and residents are urged to avoid the downtown area for the rest of the night.
This is a developing story and our 25News team is working to gather more information.
