The cause of a fire that destroyed Jacobs Pizzeria and a Marathon mini mart in Cromwell is under investigation by authorities. The building was a total loss. (Photo provided by Tara Bruner)
Two businesses occupying the Town and Country Mercantile, at 3753 N. CR 900 W., Cromwell, were destroyed by fire late Sunday afternoon. The strip mall was home to Jacobs Pizzeria and a Marathon mini-mart.
An investigation into the fire is being conducted by the Noble County Sheriff’s Department and Indiana State Fire Marshal’s office.
Sparta Township Fire Department was called at approximately 11:20 a.m. Reportedly when they arrived the wooden frame building was fully engulfed.
Assistance was called from Albion, Ligonier and Noble Township fire departments. Turkey Creek Fire Territory and North Webster fire departments were also called at approximately 11:43 a.m.
The building bordered Stone Ridge Estates Mobile Home Park, however, no homes were damaged.
According to information obtained the building at one time had been a movie theatre, housed a hair salon and a laundromat. The pizzeria and mini-mart were the only two operational businesses. It is located just east of Cromwell.