A historic structure originally built in 1895 on the Tall Timbers Plantation property was destroyed by fire Monday morning, March 16th, after what investigators believe was a lightning strike.
A press release states that Tallahassee Fire Department crews responded to the structure fire on Henry Beadel Drive at 7:14 a.m. TFD says the incident initially began as an alarm activation before a caller arriving on scene reported flames coming from the roof. The building was vacant at the time of the fire.
Upon arrival, firefighters observed fire on the second floor spreading quickly into the attic. Crews made an initial attack on the fire while also working to protect nearby structures. TFD says while fighting the flames, the second floor of the structure collapsed as the fire continued to spread through the building. Due to the rapid spread of fire through the roof and attic space, the structure was declared a total loss.
During operations, crews were able to remove and preserve several historical antiques and items that had been stored inside the building.
They said one firefighter sustained minor injuries during the incident and was taken to the hospital for evaluation…