Alexandria, AL – On Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at approximately 1:40 pm the Alexandria Fire Department was dispatched to a confirmed commercial structure fire in the 8300 block of Hwy 144. Upon arrival firefighters observed smoke and flames coming from the 144 pawn shop, located in a strip mall with other businesses. Due to the size of the fire and the threat to the entire building Alexandria Fire requested assistance from Anniston Fire Department, Jacksonville Fire Department, Ohatchee Fire Department, and the Weaver Fire Department to help keep the fire from spreading. In total there were 37 firefighters from the adjacent agencies and Alexandria to do battle against this fire. Alexandria, Anniston, and Jacksonville entered the building and conducted an interior attack as Weaver provided exterior support. It was due to this mutual aid from all the agencies that the fire was quickly contained and not allowed to travel through the building to other businesses.
Ron Dover, Chef at Ron’s Goode Barbecue stated, “We are so thankful for Alexandria, Ohatchee, Jacksonville, Anniston, and Weaver Fire Departments. They came out quickly and protected our restaurant and the Church beside us from getting any further damage. They stayed for hours to make sure the fire was out, helping us rid of smoke from the restaurant and church. The care and coordinated teamwork between them, the fact so many showed up for us means the world and I firmly believe you wouldn’t see that kind of teamwork anywhere else. It makes me Proud to be from Calhoun County.”
Ron’s Goode BBQ and a small church are located next door to the pawn shop in the same strip mall. Both have suffered from intense smoke and water damage. According to Ron Dover, “Everyone has insurance”. He also went on to say that the ATF and State Fire Marshal were out until late evening.
Dalton “Cutter” Goode owner of Ron’s Goode Barbeque shared his thoughts on the fire that happened with his neighbor, “When something like this happens, you never know what to say, do, or think but the most important thing is that everyone is physically okay. We just want to thank our Alexandria Fire Department for being first on the scene and doing everything to save our restaurant. Thank you to the rest for showing up quickly and to make sure everything was safe!! This is our first time dealing with a fire, so we don’t really know what to say or do but we are going to try our best to get back open as soon as possible. We will update you as soon as we know.” Fire Responders were quick to note that owners Cutter’s Pizzeria, as well as Ron’s, offered first responders free pizza. Dalton Goode also said Ron’s has plans to open on Wednesday.
Jacksonville Fire Chief, Keith Kadle stated, “We responded with mutual aid to Alexandria along with Anniston and others. The quick action of the first units on the scene saved the structure.” Both Chief Kadle and the Jacksonville Fire Marshal, Rodney Ball were both also present on scene.
Anniston Fire Chief, Jeff Waldrep, stated, ” We were there to help our neighbors because they needed us”. Both Chief Waldrep and Anniston Fire Marshal, Jason Brown were on scene as well.
