Fire burns out center with church, small businesses

An industrial complex fire at 900 Mallory Way burned for almost an hour Sunday before Carson City Fire crews could extinguish the blaze.

Carson City Fire Department responded to the fire at 1:15 p.m. The blaze originated at the Connected Church at the building's east side, though fire investigators said the cause is unknown as of press time.

Fire Chief Stacey Giomi said the fire started near a metal roll-up door inside the part of the building used for the church's main reception and worship area.

Giomi noted the entire complex sustained smoke damage and is "non-occupiable" at this time.

According to a sign in front of the complex, the building also houses Big Brother Big Sisters, Disability Action Advocates, Positive Energy, Self Help and Research Exchange, Guitar Lessons, and Dr. Smash Fabrications.

Giomi said it took firefighters 45 minutes to put out the fire because of the building's high ceilings and large surface area - more than 10,000 square feet.

"Well, it looks like I'm out of business - for now," said Eric Bevans of Dr. Smash - a metal fabricator for off-road vehicles. "It's one of those things. I've got insurance and so does the (landlord).

"I can't get in there today, but hopefully I can go in tomorrow and check everything out. These things happen, it's too bad when they do - but I guess it means a fresh start."

Nobody was injured in the blaze, sheriff's officials said.

Assisting the Carson City Fire Department were the East Fork Fire and Prevention Unit, Tahoe-Douglas Fire Prevention Unit, Sierra Fire Prevention Unit and the Carson City Sheriff's Department.