LEWES, DE– Officials say a Friday night fire destroyed a Sussex County community’s clubhouse.
Shortly after 9 p.m. Friday, Indian River Volunteer Fire Company (IRVFC) said the Lewes Fire Department responded to the clubhouse in the Plantations community, assisted by IRVFC, Rehoboth, Milton, Georgetown, Bethany Beach, Millsboro and Ellendale fire companies. A total of 13 crews responded.
The Delaware State Fire Police oversaw the closure of Plantation Road between Postal Lane and Robinsonville Road for the duration of the response.
The Lewes Fire Department said during its response the blaze penetrated the roof, warranting an evacuation of the fire suppression crews inside. After firefighters extinguished most of the flames from outside the structure, they reportedly re-entered to finish their efforts.
Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal John Galaska said one first responder was treated for heat exhaustion, but reported no other injuries.
The fire was contained to the clubhouse, not spreading to any of the nearby condominiums, according to a notice sent to Plantations homeowners by property manager SeaScape.
While the cause is still under investigation by the Delaware State Fire Marshal, Galaska said the fire originated inside the building – which was not protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system.
The clubhouse is estimated to be a total loss with damages at approximately $275,000, Galaska said.