Elements of the Madison Fire Department responded to a fire at Betty Gene’s restaurant on Hancock Street in under a minute on July 13.
Still, the local eatery, as well as the Community Roots Market offices, which were occupied by Mad Hospitality and Thomas Preston Real Estate next door, were completely lost due to intense heat, smoke, and fire conditions.
According to a press release from the Madison Fire Department, “Engine 21 and Squad 21 arrived on scene and quickly applied water to the fire, which was concentrated at the rear of the building.”
Morgan County Fire and Rescue’s Engine 16, along with additional staff and volunteer personnel from both MFD and MCFR, were on scene moments later to assist.
“An interior crew attempted to advance through the front of Betty Gene’s but was forced to retreat due to intense heat, smoke, and fire conditions,” the press release said. “MFD deployed Tower 22, and command called for additional personnel and apparatus to the scene. Fire suppression efforts then focused on containing the blaze, protecting nearby exposures, including the Morgan County Courthouse and Truist Bank, and attempting to save the Sinclair restaurant [which is located two doors down from Betty Gene’s.] The fire was brought under control after several hours of coordinated firefighting efforts. In total, over 45 firefighters and 16 apparatus from multiple agencies responded and battled the extreme smoke, fire, and heat conditions during one of the hottest days of the year.
“Thanks to the swift and determined actions of all crews involved, The Sinclair was saved, and the courthouse and bank buildings were successfully protected. According to the MFD, no injuries were reported, and all firefighters returned home safely.
“The Madison Fire Department extends its sincere gratitude to all paid and volunteer personnel who responded and worked tirelessly through the afternoon and into the night. Special thanks to Morgan County Fire Rescue, Greene County Fire Rescue, Greensboro Fire Department, and Social Circle Fire Department for promptly providing mutual aid. MFD also wishes to thank members of the community who generously provided water and assistance throughout the incident.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Betty Gene’s and the Sinclair are members of the Mad Hospitality group, which also includes The Dining Room, Hart and Crown Tavern, New South Motor Inn, Patisserie on Main, and Buggy Works event space.
“Our immediate focus is with our loyal and dedicated staff, the brave firefighters of Madison who valiantly fought the fire, and the community that has supported us since The Sinclair opened in 2021,” said Preston Snyder, founder of MAD Hospitality, in a statement issued following the fire. “Madison is our home. We are incredibly grateful for our loyal patrons and the outpouring of support we’ve already received. In the days ahead, we’ll assess the full scope of the damage. Whatever the next chapter looks like, our priority will be creating something that continues to serve and inspire our Madison community.”