The City of Gatesville is continuing recovery efforts following a devastating fire that occurred on March 16, destroying multiple historic buildings in the heart of downtown, strained local and regional volunteer fire departments, and resulted in injuries to three firefighters. The fire, which burned through the night and into the following day, left structures still smoldering and caused significant damage to surrounding utility poles and infrastructure.

The Gatesville Volunteer Fire Department (GVFD), as well as surrounding volunteer fire departments remained on scene in the days following, monitoring lingering hot spots, assisting with debris removal, and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area as cleanup continues.

In recognition of the extraordinary strain placed on the department’s resources, a $10,000 TNMP Emergency Resiliency Grant has been awarded to the Gatesville Volunteer Fire Department. These funds will help replenish critical supplies depleted during the emergency response, including personal protective equipment (PPE), medical supplies, firefighting foam, and structural protection materials.

The GVFD, like many rural departments, relies heavily on community support and donations to maintain essential operations. This funding will help restore readiness as the department continues to serve Gatesville and surrounding communities.

“When disaster strikes, our priority is to stand with the communities impacted. The Gatesville VFD responded with extraordinary courage during an incredibly challenging event, and this funding is meant to help them restore the essential equipment they rely on every day,” said Clint Bryan, TNMP Central Texas Director.

Local officials continue to coordinate with state agencies, utility providers, and emergency management teams as the investigation and recovery process moves forward. Roads in the affected area remain partially restricted as cleanup and structural assessments continue.

For more information on the fire and ongoing recovery efforts, visit the KCEN-TV coverage of the incident:
https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/overnight-fire-destroys-multiple-buildings-downtown-gatesville-roads-remain-closed/500-44c98ef0-f424-47f0-8532-6999983474b0