Crime & Safety
Several Businesses Destroyed By 4-Alarm Blaze: Stamford FD
A fire broke out in a commercial building in downtown Stamford early Friday morning, affecting several businesses, fire officials said.
STAMFORD, CT — Several businesses were destroyed early Friday morning in downtown Stamford and two firefighters suffered minor injuries from a four-alarm fire in the 180 block of Bedford Street, according to the Stamford Fire Department.
Units responded at 4:45 a.m. for an activated fire alarm. Smoke was found coming from the first floor of Chez Vous Bistro Restaurant, which is located in a two-story pre-war stone building at the corner of Bedford Street and Spring Street.
Initial reports from police Friday morning said firefighters responded to a fire at the restaurant, but other businesses in the building were affected by the flames.
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According to fire officials, the building also contains Whim, a women's clothing store on the first floor; Atelier Valoar Couture, a high-end custom dress and alteration store also on the first floor; the Women's Business Development Council, located on the second floor; and U & I Deco Fine Arts & Framing, which is on the first floor with a Spring Street address.
Shiro Desserts, also located on Bedford Street, suffered water damage from firefighting efforts and was also impacted.
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Arriving firefighters attacked a working fire from the rear of the restaurant, the SFD said in an update Friday afternoon.
"A large amount of fire was found in the walls and ceiling of that occupancy eventually extending to the second floor and roof, as well as the other occupancies on the first floor," fire officials said.
Additional alarms were added, and mutual aid was provided by Norwalk and Greenwich.
The fire was declared under control at 6:51 a.m. Several roads in the area were closed until around 10 a.m.
Two firefighters who suffered minor injuries were treated and released after being evaluated, the SFD said.
The cause and origin of the fire is being investigated by the Stamford Fire Marshal's Office.
The Stamford Chamber of Commerce issued a joint statement on behalf of its board early Friday evening, pledging to help those affected.
“Our heartfelt thoughts are with these business owners as they grapple with their inconceivable loss,” the statement said. “The Stamford Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the City of Stamford and DSSD, are here to support the business owners during this tough time.”
Those who have temporary spaces or can donate resources to help should contact Chamber President and CEO Heather Cavanagh at hcavanagh@stamfordchamber.com or 203-614-9979. “Together we can make a difference and support our local business community,” the statement added.
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons posted to Facebook Friday and commended the SFD for their swift actions.
She, too, said the city will help the businesses recover.
“I am heartbroken for the businesses that have been impacted but relieved that there were no injuries or lives lost,” Simmons said.
“The City will work closely with the business owners, Stamford Downtown, and the Stamford Chamber of Commerce to provide support, resources, and any necessary assistance to help them through this challenging time.”
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