Fire destroys uptown Jackson business; Community members explain they are not going through this alone

JACKSON, Mo., (KBSI) — A fire that broke out late Thursday night destroyed a Uptown Jackson business, Sweetheart Florist, and damaged two neighboring businesses, leaving the community in shock and showing support.

Crews with Jackson Fire Rescue and at least nine other departments responded to the fire, which began at Sweetheart Florist. Flames quickly spread to near by buildings, prompting a long effort to contain the blaze.

“We’ve been here about an hour, and I can see us here for another two or three,” said Michael Gentry with Jackson Fire Rescue at the scene.

As firefighters worked into the night, the structure’s damage to its roof became apparent.

“We were working on the roof when the roof start to collapse. We had to pull guys back out,” Gentry said. “Three firefighters have been treated for injuries so far.”

Thick smoke poured into the air as fire crews worked from above with ladder trucks to suppress the flames and prevent further spread.

Christie Blessing, owner of nearby Stitched and Stamped business, in Uptown Jackson, had just closed her store when she noticed smoke.

“It looked a little hazy outside,” she said. “I stuck my head out the window and saw flames coming out of the top of Sweetheart Florist. Within minutes, the smoke turned from white to black. You could tell the fire was intensifying fast.”

Like many in the community, Blessing expressed concern for her fellow business owners.

“You’re not in this alone,” she said. “We’ve got each other’s backs. We’re a tight knit community, and we’ll get through this together.”

Others were in disbelief. Barb McCormick, who had been inside a nearby business, described the moment she noticed the fire.

“We were in Lloyd’s doing karaoke when we started smelling smoke,” she said. “We ran outside and saw the fire.”

McCormick urged the public to support affected businesses and praised first responders.

“These businesses need help right now,” she said. “And I commend the fire department for risking their lives.”

According to fire officials, Sweetheart Florist is considered a total loss.

The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the cause to be accidental, likely due to an electrical appliance.

Despite the devastation, business owners and residents are already stepping up to offer support throughout this difficult process.