Former ATA Blackbelt Academy Building Collapses

 

The former ATA Blackbelt Academy building that experienced a roof collapse during the rainstorms on the evening of May 27th has collapsed more at approximately 12:45 a.m. this morning. A security guard called 911 and said that he feared there were people in the building that is located at the intersection of Van Buren at 1724 W. Beauregard Ave.

San Angelo Firefighters entered the building cautiously near the front of the building. EMS was seen pushing a gurney towards the collapsed building.

Update 1:25 a.m.

Firefighters are deploying a ladder to gain access above the rubble. They are looking for signs of life inside. Van Buren is closed to traffic.

Update 1:30 a.m.

So far, no people have been found inside the and firefighters are seen leaving the structure. EMS put the gurney away.

Update 1:40 p.m.

According to the battalion chief: A security guard from the El Patio Motel across the street saw a person with a flashlight inside the building. A few seconds later, the security guard heard a secondary collapse and called 911. Firefighters inspected the building to make sure no one was inside hurt. They didn't find anyone. They secured the building as much as they could and will call the building's owner in the morning.

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jdgt, Sat, 08/02/2014 - 08:30
So... this building has been collapsed for quite some time. A hazard to individuals, as doors and windows are busted open - and that yellow tape isn't much of a deterrent. We all know about the hoodlums that run amuck in this area. There's bound to be SOMEONE who will go inside, smoke weed, drink beer, whatever. How long does it take to have this demolished? Not only is it an eyesore to the community, but it's a death trap! Just like the eyesores on Chadbourne that need to be torn down. Stop trying to preserve a building just because it's got "history." Take a picture of it and move on.
Much of what's considered "historic San Angelo" are simply rotting, boarded up structures which no one wants to renovate or restore to a functioning, revenue generating place of business. It's kind of disheartening that downtown is little more than an ideal place to grab a snack or buy a used piece of furniture. The entire area has an untapped potential. Aside from the few bars that have recently opened, there's really nothing down there that caters to the likes and interests of young adults. I agree with you JD, take some pictures...write a nostalgic blog or two and then begin modernizing this place into the 21st century.

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