Fire Destroys Haymakers Store In West Quincy

WEST QUINCY — A fire destroyed the Haymakers store in West Quincy Monday after crews spent hours battling flames at the building.

Firefighters were called around 12:08 p.m. and arrived to find smoke coming from the building. Officials say the fire developed quickly once crews arrived, and firefighters eventually had to pull back from the roof as conditions worsened.

Investigators believe the fire started in the ceiling area near a roof tile, close to where an air conditioning unit was located.

Crews also faced water supply challenges because there were no hydrants near the business. Water had to be brought in from the area of 3rd and Maine, and Knapheide also helped provide water during the firefight.

Traffic in West Quincy was affected for several hours. Eastbound lanes were reduced, and drivers trying to reach the Memorial Bridge and Bayview Bridge saw delays while emergency crews worked in the area.

Ameren also shut off power to several West Quincy businesses as firefighters continued working the scene.

No injuries were reported. By Monday afternoon, an excavator was used to tear down what was left of the building.