Update: Historic Uptown Lexington Buildings Lost in Overnight Fire, No Injuries Reported
{Photos: Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}
Lexington fire crews remain on scene Tuesday following a devastating overnight fire that destroyed multiple Uptown buildings and left several business owners facing heartbreaking losses — while also vowing to rebuild.
According to a press release from the City of Lexington, the fire was reported around 1:12 a.m. on May 19 near North Main Street and East Center Street. Crews arrived within four minutes and found Shoto, located at 17 North Main Street, fully engulfed with flames extending from the first floor through the third floor.
The fire later spread to The Candy Factory at 15 North Main Street. Officials said both buildings suffered roof collapses extending to the first floor and are considered total losses.
Two neighboring businesses — Main Street Pizza and Deli and Bagels and More On Main — sustained significant water damage but were not breached by flames.
Despite the destruction, no injuries were reported to civilians or firefighters.
Lexington Police Chief Robby Rummage said investigators do not currently suspect foul play in connection with the fire.
Business owners on scene described the loss as emotional, particularly as some historic portions of the buildings and longtime items inside could not be saved. Several owners said they still plan to rebuild “better” while preserving the spirit of the Uptown businesses many in the community have supported for years.
Upon arrival, firefighters determined conditions inside Shoto were too dangerous to enter safely. Crews searched portions of neighboring businesses and confirmed no one was inside.
Lexington Fire Chief Michael Tofano requested additional mutual aid resources from departments across Davidson County to assist with firefighting operations and aerial apparatus support. Off-duty Lexington fire personnel were also recalled to help maintain emergency coverage throughout the city.
Mutual aid agencies assisting included Holly Grove, Linwood, Midway, Silver Valley, South Lexington, and West Lexington Fire Departments. Davidson County EMS, Davidson Communications, and Davidson Emergency Management also responded.
The Lexington Fire Department said crews from multiple City of Lexington departments — including Water, Electric, Gas, and Stormwater services — assisted throughout the response to address utility safety and support operations.
The Lexington Police Department assisted with road closures, perimeter security, crowd control, traffic management, and overnight drone monitoring.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Lexington Fire Marshal’s Office.
North Main Street between Center Street and East First Street remains closed while crews continue suppression efforts and secure the area.
