Unrecognizable heap. Only blackened shambles remain of he 5,500-square foot full-service Toad’s Cove convenience store. Where now will Centerville’s coffee klatchers klatch? Image: Steve Lunde
Nothing left except fuel pumps, side buildings
CENTERVILLE, Wis. – Both lanes of U.S. Highway 35 through Centerville were were re-opened the morning after fire destroyed the Toad’s Cove convenience store and gas station. Gawkers slowed to see the devastation, some stopping, getting out and taking pictures of what had been a thriving landmark stop for fuel, on-site cooking, and raspberry turnovers near the crossroads south to Trempealeau and north to Arcadia. Traffic had been rerouted on side streets most of the night. Firefighters from eight other communities had needed all the immediate area for their trucks and equipment. A truck-mounted ladder crew aimed hoses down into the interior while other firefighters shit water into the inferno from the ground. There were no injuries.
Earlier: Fire levels Toad’s Cove near Centerville crossroads