An electrical fire led to not one but two fires at Southern Fire and Muffler in Whiteville Wednesday.
Firefighters were not called to the first blaze at the landmark business, City Fire Marshal Hal Lowder Jr. said. The fire was believed to have been electrical in origin, and melted through several water pipes in the ceiling, causing water damage in an attic area as well as the office. Staff began cleaning up the mess when the business opened.
Firefighters were called to the Madison Street business just after noon. Another electrical fire ignited after power was restored to the building. Fire crews used the city aerial apparatus to gain access to the roof during the second fire.
Chief David Yergeau said no injuries were reported in the blaze.
