Local News
Firefighters battling intense fire at Graystone Inn in downtown Wilmington
WILMINGTON, N.C. — Firefighters are actively responding to a major structure fire at the historic Graystone Inn in downtown Wilmington, prompting road closures and a large emergency response Wednesday afternoon.
The Wilmington Fire Department confirmed that crews arrived on scene shortly after 1:40 p.m. to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the building.
Firefighters remain engaged in suppression efforts as they work to contain the blaze and prevent further damage.
The Wilmington Police Department has temporarily closed sections of Market Street and Orange Street to allow first responders access to the scene and to ensure public safety.
No injuries have been reported at this time, and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
The Graystone Inn, a well-known landmark located in Wilmington’s historic district, has been closed since mid-2023 following a kitchen fire.
The property has been undergoing renovations and construction work during the closure.
This marks the second significant fire incident involving the building in less than two years.
Fire officials have not provided an estimated containment time or damage assessment, and investigators are expected to begin examining the cause once the fire is fully under control.
The incident remains active, and additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.
EAST AURORA, N.Y. — Emergency crews responded to the Aurora Theatre at 673 Main Street in the Village of East Aurora on Sunday following a ceiling collapse inside the historic building while students and chaperones were present.
Officials said construction activity inside the two-story brick structure led to a portion of the ceiling giving way during a scheduled event.
At the time of the incident, approximately 68 students and adult chaperones were inside the theater.
First responders confirmed there was no entrapment and the collapse was limited in scope.
Emergency Medical Services evaluated six pediatric patients for minor injuries at the scene. No serious injuries were reported.
Fire and safety officials secured the area and conducted a structural assessment to ensure the remainder of the building was safe.
Authorities said the incident remains under review, including the circumstances surrounding the construction work that preceded the collapse.
Further information will be released as the investigation continues.