Columbus Dispatch: Massive Fire Guts Historic Building in Downtown Columbus

Massive Fire Guts Historic Building in Downtown ColumbusMassive Fire Guts Historic Building in Downtown Columbus The Columbus Dispatch A devastating fire tore through a historic building in downtown Columbus early Wednesday morning, gutting the interior and leaving only a charred shell. The blaze erupted shortly before 4 a.m. at the Gottardi Building, a six-story structure located at Broad and High streets. Firefighters battled the flames for hours, but the building’s age and complex layout made it difficult to contain the inferno. By dawn, the building’s iconic facade had been reduced to rubble, and smoke billowed into the morning sky. No injuries have been reported, but the fire has caused extensive damage to the building and its contents. The Gottardi Building, constructed in 1895, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been a landmark in downtown Columbus for more than a century. “This is a tragic loss for our city,” said Mayor Andrew Ginther. “The Gottardi Building was a beautiful and iconic structure that held great historical significance.” The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire officials said they are examining all possibilities, including electrical malfunctions and human error. The fire has sparked fears about the safety of other historic buildings in downtown Columbus. City officials are working to identify any potential risks and take measures to prevent similar tragedies. The Gottardi Building housed several businesses, including a restaurant and a photography studio. The owner of the building said he is heartbroken by the loss. “It’s a devastating blow,” he said. “I’ve poured my heart and soul into this building.” The fire is a major setback for the revitalization efforts underway in downtown Columbus. The city has been investing heavily in redeveloping historic buildings and attracting new businesses to the area. “This fire will certainly set us back, but it won’t stop us,” said Ginther. “We will rebuild and we will come back stronger.”