SHELTON, CT (WFSB) – In a devastating turn of events, a massive fire erupted late Friday night, completely obliterating a cherished historic building at the Highland Golf Club in Shelton, which was just months away from marking its monumental 125th anniversary.
Firefighters swiftly responded to the golf course, located at 261 Wooster Street, shortly before midnight after multiple reports indicated a significant blaze that was visible in the area.
Upon arrival, fire crews discovered that the flames had rapidly consumed the roof, leading to the rapid engulfment of the entire structure.
No one was inside when the fire erupted, and fortunately, no injuries have been reported, sparing the community from personal loss.
The last person to exit the community center was reportedly seen leaving around 6 p.m. on Friday, hours before the inferno started.
In the aftermath, around two hundred concerned members gathered on Saturday morning to survey the extensive damage caused by the fire.
“It’s gone, the whole clubhouse is gone. It’s going to be devastating for a lot of us,” lamented Joe Sedlock, a dedicated Highland Golf member for sixty years. “This is a home away from home. We have a lot of fun here and have a lot of good memories here. Very sad.”
Generations of priceless photographs and memorabilia were lost, leaving a void in the club’s rich history.
The fire’s rapid spread was exacerbated by dry, windy conditions that also contributed to multiple brush fires in the vicinity.
Mutual aid from neighboring fire departments in Monroe and Derby proved crucial in preventing the intense flames from reaching nearby residences.
“A few little embers are all it took to start probably a half-acre fire just down the street from here,” explained Shelton Assistant Fire Chief Bob Finta. “That’s why we’re keeping water flowing on the building right now. Try to keep any embers or sparks from flying off as we get near daybreak.”
Firefighters are still diligently working to contain the remnants of the fire and prevent any further brush fires in the area.
Officials have initiated an investigation into the cause of the devastating blaze, with the Fire Marshal’s Office expected to take over the inquiries.
What steps are being taken to investigate the cause of the fire at Highland Golf Club?
**Interview with John Mitchell, General Manager of Highland Golf Club**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, John. First and foremost, can you share your feelings about the loss of such an important building to your club and the community?
**John**: Thank you for having me. It’s truly heartbreaking. The Highland Golf Club has been a cornerstone of our community for 125 years, and to see it reduced to ashes in just a few hours is devastating for all of us — members, staff, and local residents alike.
**Editor**: What can you tell us about the fire? Was there any indication of how it might have started?
**John**: At this point, we’re still in the process of investigating the cause. Firefighters responded quickly, and the fact that no one was inside when it happened is a blessing. But it is still too early to determine what triggered the fire.
**Editor**: That’s indeed fortunate. How has the community reacted to this incident?
**John**: The outpouring of support has been overwhelming. Members and local citizens are rallying together, reminiscing about the events that took place in the building over the years. It’s been a gathering place for celebrations, meetings, and countless memories. We plan to honor that legacy moving forward.
**Editor**: With the club’s 125th anniversary just around the corner, do you have any plans to commemorate the history of the building after this tragedy?
**John**: Absolutely. While the building itself is gone, the spirit of the Highland Golf Club remains strong. We’re in discussions about how we can honor its legacy. This could include events and initiatives that celebrate our history, involving the community to help us work towards rebuilding.
**Editor**: Thank you, John. We appreciate you taking the time to speak with us today. Your resilience echoes the spirit of this community, and we wish you all the best in the recovery process.
**John**: Thank you very much. We’ll get through this together.
