A devastating Georgia courthouse fire has destroyed one of Rome’s oldest and most recognized landmarks, sending shockwaves through the local community.
The blaze broke out Monday afternoon at the historic Floyd County Courthouse in downtown Rome, Georgia. Thick black smoke quickly filled the sky, forcing evacuations across nearby streets and businesses.
Fire spreads rapidly during renovations
Officials said the fire was first reported around 2:20 p.m. inside the courthouse. At the time, construction crews were working on renovations within the 134-year-old building.
Within minutes, flames burst through parts of the structure. Witnesses shared videos online showing heavy smoke and intense fire spreading across the historic site.
According to local reports from Reuters, fires in older buildings can spread quickly due to aging materials and structural design.
Evacuations and emergency response
Floyd County Manager Jamie McCord confirmed that all employees inside the courthouse were safely evacuated. No injuries have been reported so far.
Firefighters from the Rome-Floyd County Fire Department rushed to the scene and worked to control the blaze. Police also shut down major roads and cleared parts of Broad Street as a safety measure.
Emergency crews remained on site for hours as they battled the fire and secured the area.
A historic loss for the community
The Floyd County Courthouse has stood for over a century, serving as a center of legal and civic life in Rome. For many residents, it represents generations of history.
Images of the burning building quickly spread across social media, drawing emotional reactions from locals and history advocates alike.
Experts often warn that historic buildings are especially vulnerable during renovation work. The National Fire Protection Association notes that construction activity can increase fire risks if proper precautions are not in place.
Cause under investigation
Officials have not yet determined what caused the fire. Investigators are now examining whether construction work played a role in the incident.
Authorities say this remains a developing situation, and more details will be released as the investigation continues.
For now, the loss of the courthouse marks a painful moment for Rome, as a piece of its past disappears in a single afternoon.