A two-alarm commercial structure fire caused significant damage to Goatfeathers Seafood Market in Santa Rosa Beach Wednesday morning, prompting firefighters to take a defensive position after determining that the building’s roof and second floor were unstable.
The South Walton Fire District received a 911 call at approximately 10:40 a.m. August 12 reporting flames and smoke coming from the roof area of the seafood market.
When firefighters arrived, they encountered heavy fire and low visibility on the restaurant’s second floor. Crews confirmed the building had been evacuated and that restaurant employees were safely out of the structure.
Firefighters initially worked to extinguish the flames from inside. The incident commander later ordered crews into a defensive posture after evaluating the roof and second floor and determining there was a potential for collapse.
A second alarm was requested as firefighters continued battling the blaze.
Crews worked for several hours to extinguish hotspots within the building’s roofline. A fire crew was expected to remain at the scene overnight Wednesday to monitor for flare-ups.
No civilians or firefighters were injured.
The location of the nearest fire hydrant also led to the closure of County Highway 30A in both directions at the intersection of Gulfview Heights. SWFD advised motorists and pedestrians to follow temporary detours until emergency crews cleared the area.
Fire Investigators Determine Likely Cause
SWFD fire investigators, working alongside the State Fire Marshal’s Office, investigated the cause of the fire.
Initial findings indicate the fire likely began in the kitchen and was accidental, according to SWFD.
The business sustained significant damage in the fire.
SWFD thanked Walton County Sheriff’s Office deputies and mutual aid agencies that assisted at the scene and helped provide coverage throughout South Walton while firefighters worked the incident.
The fire district also expressed its support for the business owners and employees affected by the fire.
All images credited to the SWFD.
