Struggling small businesses heavily damaged as fast-moving fire tears through Main Street in Butler

BUTLER, Pa. — Several businesses in downtown Butler, already impacted by the pandemic, are now picking up the pieces after a devastating weekend fire.

Crews spent Monday removing all of the inventory from Miller’s Shoes, which has been in business for 128 years, while industrial fans worked to dry up the water damage.

“We’re a legend here. The whole 200 block here, valuable stores, and that’s going to be a great loss for our community,” said Miller’s owner Jimmy Chiprean.

Investigators said Saturday’s four-alarm fire started at Sir Speedy Printing. The flames quickly moved next door to Reclamation Brewing, which is owned by Butler’s mayor. The Edward Jones store also sustained heavy smoke and water damage.

“Keep on coming. Support your local businesses, your downtown businesses. I know everybody’s hard-hit, but this is the time we’ve all got to move together to save our businesses,” said Chiprean.

Police and the fire marshal are working to figure out how the blaze started.

No one was hurt.

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Cox Media Group