Firefighters from the South Walton Fire District responded to a two-alarm commercial structure fire at Goatfeathers Seafood Market early on August 12.

The incident started at around 10:40 a.m. when SWFD dispatchers got a 911 call about smoke and flames coming from the roof. When firefighters arrived, they discovered a large fire and poor visibility on the second story of the restaurant. Crews started fighting the fire after everyone in the building, including the restaurant employes, was evacuated.

After finding that the roof and second floor were unstable and posed a potential collapse threat, the Incident Commander subsequently deployed teams to a defensive position. The request for a second alarm brought more resources to the scene.

For several hours, firefighters searched the roofline for hotspots and put them out. On Wednesday nite, a team stayed on the scene to keep an eye out for flare-ups. There were no recorded injuries to firefighters or civilians.

At Gulfview Heights, County Highway 30A had to be closed in both directions due to the placement of the closest hydrant. Until firefighters evacuated the area, drivers and pedestrians were advised to take temporary routes.

To identify the reason, SWFD fire investigators collaborated with the State Fire Marshal's Office. According to preliminary findings, the fire most likely started accidentally in the kitchen. The company suffered serious harm.

Walton County Sheriff’s Office deputies and mutual aid departments assisted at the scene and provided coverage in South Walton during the incident. South Walton Fire District also extended its support to the affected business owners and employees.