Fire destroys businesses in Hardeman County

GRAND JUNCTION, Tenn — An early Saturday morning fire destroyed two Hardeman County businesses.

Business owner, Terica Shaw could only stare at the destruction of what was her business for the past year.

“Someone was driving by and they saw a lot of smoke and they came and knocked on my door and told me that my building was on fire,” Shaw said.

Shaw said the “J & Z Center” is a place people can rent out for events like parties, banquets and baby showers.

“I  just really wanted to start a business just something for the community,” Shaw said.

Right next door to J & Z, stood Big Al’s Restaurant.

“Never in my wildest dreams I didn’t think the building could burn you know natural disaster maybe but never a fire,” Business owner, Alfred Tice said.

The Grand Junction Fire Chief received the call around 3:00 AM Saturday.

“When I got here Saulsbury Fire Department, Hickory Valley Fire Department, Bolivar Fire Department, La Grange Fire Department, and Grand Junction was already on scene,” Chief Tommy Breeden said.

The other departments were called because of a county agreement that provides assistance in fires that are too big for one department to handle.

Chief Tommy Breeden said it took 2 1/2 hours to get the fire under control.

Owners of both buildings said because the fire was so unexpected they don’t know what will be next for them to move forward.

“I have no idea right now. None at all,” Shaw said.

“I’m just gone count my losses and let it go I guess. It’s no way I could build it back up not where it is and get it back open,” Tice said.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The state fire marshal’s office was called out to investigate and determine a cause.