Toccoa, Georgia – Fire crews battled a massive blaze late Thursday night that tore through a commercial building along Highway 123 at East Tugalo Street, forcing the shutdown of the roadway and sending thick smoke billowing across the area. The fast-moving fire prompted a multi-agency emergency response as firefighters worked urgently to contain the growing inferno.

According to early reports, the fire began in the 2300 block of Highway 123 and was first spotted by a passing driver who alerted authorities after seeing flames emerging from the rear of the structure. The Carnes Creek Fire Department was the first to arrive, quickly realizing that the blaze was spreading rapidly through the building’s interior.

Within minutes, the incident escalated into a full commercial structure fire, prompting requests for backup from neighboring agencies. Crews from Stephens County EMS, Toccoa Fire Department, Big Smith Fire, Toccoa Police Department, and the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office all converged on the scene to assist in the operation.

Firefighters dragged heavy water lines across the highway, forcing a complete closure of Highway 123 near East Tugalo as they fought to stop the flames from consuming the building and threatening nearby businesses. Witnesses described seeing plumes of orange and black smoke rising high into the night sky, visible from several blocks away.

Despite the rapid response, crews faced immense challenges inside the structure. Intense heat, collapsing debris, and thick smoke made it difficult to reach the fire’s core. Firefighters focused their efforts on preventing a total collapse while creating barriers to stop the flames from spreading to adjacent commercial properties.

Officials on the scene urged residents and drivers to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to operate safely. Nearby businesses were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. Law enforcement officers redirected traffic, and utility crews were called in to shut off power to the affected section of the highway.

After hours of grueling work, firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control, though crews remained on-site late into the night to extinguish hot spots and monitor for flare-ups. Authorities said an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, with state fire marshals expected to assist in determining how it started.

As of press time, officials reported that no injuries have been confirmed among firefighters, employees, or bystanders. However, the building sustained significant damage, with much of the interior destroyed. Investigators will conduct a structural assessment once it is deemed safe to enter the site.

Community members gathered nearby to watch as emergency responders worked tirelessly under flashing lights and billowing smoke. Many expressed gratitude for the bravery and coordination of local fire departments, crediting their swift actions for preventing the blaze from spreading further down the business corridor.

By early morning, Highway 123 remained partially closed as crews cleared debris and restored utilities. Officials reminded residents to stay cautious around the area until cleanup operations are complete. While the cause remains under investigation, the fire has left a lasting mark on Toccoa’s business district—a stark reminder of the speed and power of fire and the heroism of those who fight it.