Quick Fire Rescue Response Confines Blaze to Patio Area, New Downtown Business Minor Damage
- Steve Jurrens
- Dec 4
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Swift action by Watertown Fire Rescue (WFR) contained an exterior fire on Thursday, December 4, 2025, behind The Local restaurant, resulting in no injuries and minimal damage to the interior of the downtown structure.
The incident began at 11:56 a.m. when WFR units were dispatched to 16 Kemp Ave W for a structure fire. The initial response included Engine 4, Engine 3, Medic 4, and Battalion 1.
Upon arrival, fire crews found a fire on the exterior patio that had spread to the patio’s second level and was climbing the building’s exterior wall. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire, effectively containing it to the exterior structure and patio.
While the fire was being fought, a second crew immediately searched and evacuated all occupants of The Local restaurant, the adjacent Harry’s salon, and the residential units above the businesses as a precaution. Although fire did not extend into the structure, smoke had entered the building.
Crews remained on the scene for approximately one hour to search for any hidden fire extension and to thoroughly ventilate the building.
Crucially, no injuries were reported on the scene. Following the incident, The Local released a statement on social media, expressing thanks and confirming the damage was minor.
The restaurant’s post read: “We just want to let everyone know that The Local - Watertown is just fine! The fire was contained to the patio. We only have a little smoke damage. We appreciate everyone’s concern and want to thank the professionals at Watertown Fire & Rescue!!”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by authorities.
