A commercial structure fire in Dagsboro caused significant damage Tuesday afternoon, prompting a response from multiple fire companies across Sussex County.
According to Chief Deputy John M. Galaska of the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office, the fire was reported shortly after 3:30 p.m. in the 28000 block of Quarter Mile Drive. Crews from the Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Company arrived to find a commercial vehicle repair garage with heavy fire and smoke visible from the building.
Officials said the business was occupied and operating at the time of the incident, but all occupants safely evacuated before fire crews arrived. No injuries were reported among workers or firefighters.
Deputy State Fire Marshals conducted an investigation at the scene and determined that the blaze was accidental. Investigators concluded that gasoline vapors ignited during a vehicle repair operation inside the garage, sparking the fire that spread through the structure.
Damage to the facility has been estimated at approximately $800,000. No other structures were affected, and no further injuries have been reported.