Fire crews from multiple agencies responded to a significant three-alarm fire that engulfed the CVS at St. Pete Beach's Dolphin Village shopping center yesterday afternoon. According to WFLA, the fire broke out around 2:45 p.m. at the complex located on Gulf Boulevard, prompting evacuations and leaving behind a large plume of dark smoke visible from a distance.
As per reports from Tampa Bay Times, more than 40 units were on site battling the blaze, which experienced a resurgence later in the evening. This additional flare-up at a nearby Publix added to the complexity of the firefighting efforts.
The damage to local businesses was substantial. The ABC Action News reported that at least three businesses suffered from the incident, with CVS facing total destruction, while Publix and Swim City were also impacted by smoke and water damage. A partial roof collapse occurred at the CVS after fire crews made entry, further complicating the scene.
Extensive joint efforts were required from the St. Pete Beach Fire Department and neighboring agencies, including Lealman, Pinellas Park, Gulfport, St. Pete, and Treasure Island, to manage the incident. According to a statement obtained by WFLA, as of last night, the cause of the fire had not been determined, and no injuries had been reported.
