The Delaware State Fire Marshals Office is investigating a fire that damaged a big box store late Friday.
On Friday evening, a fire was reported in the garden center of the Walmart located at 117 Wilton Blvd in New Castle. Firefighters, dispatched at 10:52, found smoke inside the building and a fire in the garden center upon arrival.
Crews began their attack on the fire while simultaneously conducting a search of the store to locate any potential victims. The search confirmed that all occupants had safely evacuated the premises, and no one was found inside.
Firefighters worked to extinguish the fire in the garden center area. Once the flames were under control, command instructed crews to shut off the store’s sprinkler system. This step was taken to prevent further water damage. Efforts then shifted to ventilating the building and removing smoke, which had spread throughout the store. Clearing the smoke continued into early Saturday morning.
The fire, while contained quickly, disrupted operations at the store. According to reports, the building may remain closed until Monday, although this has not been officially confirmed. The exact cause of the fire has not yet been released.
Jeffery Essary, a spokesman for Walmart’s corporate office said “We’re thankful there were no injuries to our associates or customers. We are assessing any damage and will work to reopen our New Castle, DE store as quickly as possible.”