Fire destroys Bert's Pharmacy building in Hastings

HASTINGS, Neb. -- A fire has gutted the Bert’s Pharmacy building in downtown Hastings.

Just after 11:30 Sunday night, a neighbor was woken up when his smoke alarm went off. He told NCN's reporter on the scene that when he went outside, he saw flames in the awning of the Bert’s building and called 911.

Fire crews were called and found flames shooting from the 2nd story window at 2nd St. and Hastings Ave. The fire burned in the upper level of the building for more than an hour before the roof collapsed.

The fire was brought under control after more than 2 hours, destroying much of the interior.

In addition to Bert’s Pharmacy, the Adams County Convention and Visitors Bureau offices were in that building.

"We're working together to save as much of our downtown as we can," said Hastings Fire Marshal Anthony Murphy.

Hastings Fire and Rescue reports that there was no one in the building and no one was hurt fighting the fire.

Hastings, Hastings Rural, Juniata, and Glenvil fire departments were all on scene. The cause remains under investigation.