ALPINE, TX - A fire that broke out late yesterday afternoon in historic downtown Alpine has left the community in shock and mourning. The blaze, which engulfed the building at 109-115 West Holland Avenue, started in Judy’s Bread and Breakfast Bakery Cafe according to witnesses, though the official cause is still under investigation.
The Alpine Fire Department, upon receiving the call around 3:45 p.m. on Sunday, May 26, 2024, responded swiftly to the scene with 14 firefighters and multiple units, including Command 1, Command 2, Brush 2, Attack 1, Rescue 1, Engine 1, Engine 3, and Tanker 1. Despite their efforts to access and extinguish the flames, conditions rapidly deteriorated, leading to a structural collapse. Thankfully, all civilians and fire personnel were safely evacuated before the collapse.
Firefighters cleaning up hot spots early this morning May 27 after the May 26, 2024 Alpine Downtown Fire.
Firefighters from Marfa, Fort Davis, Marathon, Terlingua, and the Texas A&M Forest Service joined the Alpine Fire Department in battling the inferno. Their primary goal was to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings, including the historic Holland Hotel and Catchlight Art Gallery. The fire was eventually allowed to burn itself out, with crews working to protect the surrounding area.
While no injuries have been officially reported, four firefighters were treated for minor injuries. The fire department continues to monitor the scene, urging the public to stay clear of the area and adhere to all safety signage and barricades.
The damage from the May 26, 2024 Downtown Alpine Fire.
Before and after the fire that destroyed almost an entire city block on May 26, 2024 in downtown Alpine.
In the aftermath of this devastating event, Historic Alpine, Inc. has launched a fundraising campaign to support the affected businesses. The nonprofit organization, dedicated to preserving Alpine's history, has established a special account to raise emergency funds. These funds will be directed towards helping businesses secure new locations and resume operations as quickly as possible.
“Our hearts are heavy as we stand together in the wake of a devastating fire that has claimed one of Alpine’s landmark buildings,” said Abbey Branch, director of Historic Alpine, Inc. “Our immediate goal is to help vital local businesses get back on their feet quickly. Transparency and trust will guide us every step of the way.”
The businesses affected by the fire include Judy’s Bread and Breakfast, Eva’s Salon, Gallery on the Square, La Azteca, and Vintage Antiques and Snazzy Things. The fire was on the same block as, and adjacent to, the historic Holland Hotel that was relatively unharmed by the blaze, according to reports.
Contributions to the Alpine Business Fire Relief Fund can be made online through PayPal or by mail to Historic Alpine, Inc. at P.O. Box 304, Alpine, TX 79831. Donations will help ensure that local businesses can continue to serve the community without undue delay.
After the blaze in historic downtown Alpine on May 26, 2024.
“This building is a loss to not only the business and property owners but the entirety of Alpine,” the Alpine Fire Department stated. “We are thankful all occupants are safe. Alpine came together to support not only emergency responders but the businesses and families as well. Alpine stands unified, we pull each other up, and always will.”
For more information on how to contribute to the relief efforts, please visit the Historic Alpine, Inc. website or contact them directly.
How to help with donations:
- PayPal Donation Link
- Mail Donations: Historic Alpine, Inc., P.O. Box 304, Alpine, TX 79831 (Please mark as Alpine Business Fire Relief Fund)
Alpine, home of Sul Ross University, is located between Marathon and Marfa on US 90/67 about a 3.5 hours drive southwest of San Angelo.
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