Bargain Center, Inc. in Sallisaw reportedly received damage to its showroom last Sunday evening following a fire at its location on 622 W. Cherokee.
General manager Carlos Velazquez said that the business’s showroom experienced an “unexpected fire incident” on May 26.
“Thankfully, our team is unharmed,” he said in a statement on the business’s Facebook page. “We want to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude for everyone’s ongoing support and understanding. It has truly “ignited” our spirits. It’s moments like these that underscore the strength of our community, and we are immensely grateful to be a part of it.”
Sallisaw Fire Chief Anthony Armstrong said the fire department was dispatched to the scene at about 9:48 p.m. after receiving calls that heavy smoke was seen coming from the building, along with noticeable flames on the southwest side.
“Firefighters made entry through the back; we had to force our way in the doors,” Armstrong said. “We ended up hitting a garage door in the side and had a hose team go in the back and start working.”
Armstrong said firefighters were forced to break some glass in the front of the business in order to send a second team in to fight the blaze.
“We also contacted the city and had them shut the electric off to the building,” he said. “Because it was a metal building with a metal roof, it was extremely hot and hard on our firefighters. They went through several air tanks but we finally got it under control.”
Between fire, smoke, heat and water damage, Armstrong said the contents of the building were a total loss.
“The cause of the fire is still under investigation. We have some ideas to how it started but that can’t be determined as of yet,” he said. “We’re not suspicious of any foul play, but the state fire marshal has been called in.”
He said firefighters left the scene about 3:30 a.m.
Also known as BCI to its customers, Velazquez said while the showroom at the Sallisaw location is under repair, they will be showcasing a virtual showroom for their customers.
He said throughout the renovation process, employees will remain committed to meeting all of their customers’ and future customers’ furniture, appliance and electronic needs.
“Thanks for standing by us through thick and thin,” he continued.
Velazquez said customers can reach them at their Stilwell location at 918-696-2111.
“We can take orders over the phone and assist with any questions regarding your account. Thank you for your patience,” he concluded.
