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The blaze erupted around 9 p.m. at 6006 Highway 45 N and barely missed spreading to the showroom. The warehouse building and all inventory inside were completely destroyed, with the loss estimated to be between $15 and $20 million.
The general public did not have access to the site where the fire started. The ATF has not revealed the cause of the fire or ruled out any suspects.
The four-alarm blaze was visible for miles. Houston firefighters are credited with preventing the showroom from burning, though they were unable to save any part of the warehouse. The inventory inside was made of highly combustible material, including wood and fabric, and the flames spread quickly.
Gallery Furniture was founded by Jim McIngvale 28 years ago and is a well-known member of the Houston community. The warehouse had a no-smoking policy, and its computer records were backed up. The store is currently renting warehouse space and operating out of its second location in the Galleria area.
Authorities are asking the public's help in identifying a suspect or suspects. Tips can be reported to Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS, or toll-free directly to the ATF at 1-888-ATF-FIRE.
By Robyn Broyles
ginkgo100@gmail.com
http://robynbroyles.net
Posted May 28th, 2009 by Anonymous
