Flames destroy historic Heritage Square building in Kalama

A fierce and fast-moving fire gutted the historic Heritage Square building in Kalama on Wednesday, along with its antique, gift and espresso shops.

Firefighters were called to the old wooden building at 176 N. First St. shortly after noon, said Capt. Terry Sinkler with Cowlitz County Fire District 5 in Kalama.

Someone had reported light smoke and later heavy smoke inside. The building and an adjoining one were being evacuated.

When the first crews arrived, they saw flames flaring from the roof of the building. They called for a second alarm that brought crews and trucks from fire departments as far away as Longview, Woodland and Clark County.

The first firefighters rushed inside to attack flames with their hoses, but soon had to retreat.

"They roof started to sag and they left the building," Sinkler said. "About a minute later, the roof collapsed."

The collapsed roof protected an estimated 5 to 10 percent of the valuable antiques and collectibles from flames and they were taken outside.

After several hours, the building was destroyed, but no one was reported injured, Sinkler said.

With about 60 firefighters, eight engines and three ladder trucks on scene, they managed to save an adjoining building that houses Poker Pete's pizza and tavern and some upstairs apartments.

However, smoke reached the upstairs units, so Red Cross volunteers came to help two displaced couples with temporary lodging.

The Heritage Square building is owned by Clark County resident Karrie Svatos, who operated the antique shop that had been remodeled by her mother, JoAn Corrales, several years ago.

The building was built in 1896, according to The Daily News of Longview.

Coralles is a former Hollywood model from the 1950s and longtime friend of the late actor Marlon Brando, who spent time with her in Kalama, according to freerepublic.com.

John Branton: 360-735-4513 or john.branton@columbian.com.