The community of Big Valley is mourning the loss of their grocery store after an overnight fire leveled the building in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Despite the efforts of the Heartland Regional Fire Department, the structure of the Big Valley market was completely destroyed.
As news of the fire spread, photos & videos surfaced on community Facebook groups showing the intense orange glow of the fire lighting up the night sky.
Many residents expressed relief that the historic jail was spared, while lamenting the loss of the local business.
Big Valley, located about 35 kilometers south of Stettler, is well-known as a stop for the Alberta Prairie Steam Train.
Fire investigators are expected to sift through the debris once the site is deemed safe to enter.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
