Fire destroys iconic Versailles diner and apartments above, displacing five people

VERSAILLES, Ky. (WKYT) - Downtown Versailles is reeling after an early morning fire destroyed Wilson’s Pool Room and the apartments above it, displacing three families and drawing an outpouring of community support.

Woodford County Emergency Management Director Drew Chandler said crews received the call just after 6 a.m. Firefighters from seven departments across central Kentucky worked for six hours to extinguish the flames and control hot spots before they could enter the building.

In total, five people have been displaced and are relying on the Red Cross and local nonprofits for temporary housing. A dog also died in the fire.

Wilson’s Pool Room, established in 1955, and its five apartments are a total loss. Emergency management says it is too early to determine a cause.

Community reacts

Neighbor Mark Hooks said the loss is felt across the community.

“When I first moved here, everybody talked about the Willy burger, so all the locals know it. I’m really sad to see the owners have to go through this,” Hooks said.

Before the fire was even out, other business owners and neighbors showed up to offer support to first responders and the owner of Wilson’s. Including the owner of the Marathon gas station down the street, providing breakfast sandwiches and drinks.

Woodford County Judge Executive James Kay called Wilson’s Pool Room a historic pillar of downtown Versailles and said crews are working to protect the surrounding historic area.

“This is why these folks are heroes, these brave men and women are going into those flames, they put the fire out, they saved property, they saved lives,” Kay said. “This is just one of those iconic places in Versailles and Woodford County, so it’s a really sad day for our community.”

Versailles Mayor Laura Dake issued a statement following the fire.

“The City of Versailles offers its care and comfort to the owners and tenants of Wilson’s downtown in the wake of this devastating fire. We appreciate the heroic efforts of our city and county first responders who work so hard to keep our community safe. Our hearts are heavy, but we are a close-knit community and we will pull together and assist those who need our support,” Dake said.

Other businesses impacted

Other businesses in downtown Versailles were also impacted by the fire. Kristen Tinker, owner of Kristen’s Kreations, said her business lost power, and some nearby businesses are still without it. Most business owners decided to close on Thursday in solidarity with Wilson’s.

“All the business owners down here, we truly look out for each other, we care about each other, so if somebody needs anything anytime, we’re always willing to jump in,” Tinker said.

Lexington Street is closed between Locust Street and Main Street. Woodford County Emergency Management warns drivers to expect the closure to continue.

How to help

Donations for families affected by the fire can be dropped off at the American Legion, Woodford Post 67, on Main Street. Donations can be given as cash, check, or gift card and can be dropped off on Thursday, Friday, or during normal business hours beginning Saturday.

This story is developing and will be updated as information becomes available.