The iconic Bavarian Inn Motel outside of Hillsdale is a total loss after a large fire on Saturday.
While the cause is under investigation, Hillsdale Rural Fire Department Chief Brian Aube says it does not appear suspicious. They have determined where it began at around 11:30 a.m.
"It was started out back in one of the out buildings, outside," Aube said. "We have the origin pretty well mapped down."
It took 200 firefighters eight hours and more than 600,000 gallons of water to put out the fire. The firefighters came from 19 different departments in 5 counties.
Aube said this fire was an especially difficult one for multiple reasons, including the building's structure, the lack of fire hydrants nearby, and the extreme heat and wind.
"It would get to be a black out, and the guys couldn't see their hand in front of their face," Aube said. "Everyone was gagging, their eyes were watering so bad."
Firefighters were assisted frequently by EMS on the scene. Aube also said the community stepped in offering food and water.
No one was hurt during the blaze, but now what remains of the Inn is an eyesore attracting attention from drivers.
Aube said Sunday morning they responded to a two-car accident that sent two people to the hospital after their gawking. The vehicles were totaled.
"Everybody's wanting to come out and look at it, and that's fine, but they need to pay attention to their driving mainly," Aube said. "I mean, if they want to stop and pull into a parking lot to look, that's different than tying up one of the main highways here."
Community members understand people's interest. Sally Nichols has lived in Hillsdale her whole life.
"It's kinda sad for the community, because there are not that many places to stay in Hillsdale," Nicholas said. "I can remember it being a great business."
The Fire Marshall is expected to be on the scene Tuesday to continue the investigation.
