WHITESVILLE, W.Va. — The Whitesville Fire Department says a fire that broke out Monday evening destroyed the Armstrong Funeral Home on Coal River Road.
Firefighters were alerted at 5:39 p.m. on November 10 after reports of black smoke coming from the building.
“When units arrived on scene, they found a working structure fire with heavy smoke coming from all openings of the structure,” the department said.
Crews from the Racine Fire Department responded automatically for mutual aid, while additional departments from Boone and Raleigh counties were called in for tanker and manpower support.
Firefighters initially entered the building in an attempt to attack the blaze from inside, but conditions quickly deteriorated. Crews were forced to withdraw as the fire spread throughout the structure.
Officials say multiple nearby buildings were protected, and the fire was ultimately contained to the funeral home.
The West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause.
“This is a greatly felt loss for the town of Whitesville and our beloved community. Our thoughts are with those affected by this incident,” the department said in a statement.
Chief Matthew Lively expressed gratitude to all who assisted, including the Boone County Ambulance Authority, several volunteer fire departments, Marfork Coal Company, and local businesses and residents who supported crews throughout the night.