Bert’s Pharmacy in downtown Hastings destroyed by fire

HASTINGS, Neb. (KSNB) - Four fire departments worked together to battle a fire in downtown Hastings that caused heavy damage to several businesses.

Hastings Fire and Rescue was called to 708 W. 2nd St. at 11:26 p.m. Sunday. A smoke alarm in a nearby upstairs apartment alerted a tenant, who called 911 and reported that the awning of Bert’s Pharmacy was on fire. The tenant made it out safely.

When fire crews arrived, flames and smoke were visible from the awning and the wall of Bert’s Pharmacy. Firefighters from Hastings Rural, Juniata and Glenvil provided mutual aid.

The structure’s roof partially collapsed and the fire spread north to the Hastings Visitor Center, causing heavy damage. Businesses as far as three buildings to the west also sustained smoke damage.

The Hastings Utilities Department temporarily disconnected utilities to a two-block area during the fire, and the fire was under control by 2:20 a.m. The Hastings Police Department also assisted on scene.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and no injuries were reported.

The Street Department has blockades in place for Hastings Avenue from 3rd Street to 1st Street, and for 2nd Street from Lincoln Avenue to Denver Avenue. The blockades will remain in place until the structural integrity of the building can be determined. Drivers should plan their routes accordingly.

A Bert’s Pharmacy spokesperson told Local4 Monday morning that they will be able to fill their customer’s prescriptions from their north Hastings store at 1021 North 14th Street. They will be able to access all records from the downtown store. The phone number for the 14th street store is 402.462.4466.

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