A fire erupted at Bronco Mexican Restaurant in Harrogate yesterday, resulting in an explosion and one confirmed death, authorities said. Claiborne County Sheriff Bob Brooks told WVLT News that the blaze's intensity prompted a coordinated response from multiple law enforcement and fire teams.
During the firefighting efforts, a body was found in the remains of the building, although the identity was not immediately released. An employee was reported missing after the fire, raising concerns. According to a WBIR report, an animal control officer witnessed the explosion, which caused doors and windows to blow out as flames engulfed the restaurant around 8 a.m.
Harrogate Mayor Troy Poore spoke to WATE about the quick response from nine fire departments, including volunteer crews and support from Kentucky. The fire destroyed the restaurant, but the tobacco shop sharing the building only suffered minor smoke damage.
The Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are investigating the cause of the fire and the death.
