Wetaskiwin RCMP, along with members of the Wetaskiwin, Camrose, and Millet fire departments, are currently on scene (12:05 P.M. Tuesday, March 19,) of a major structure fire in Wetaskiwin.

They have reported that the fire broke out at approximately 6:30 A.M., at the historical Rose Country Inn in Wetaskiwin.

Carrie Stewart is a Wetaskiwin resident and has worked at the bar for many years.

“I’m really sad, I’ve been working here since I was 18, he gave me my first job as a bar maid, and I always come here when I need a place to go hang out.”

Stewart said she had a good relationship with the owner, who called the place home.

“He lost everything, he lived upstairs.”

Although it is unsure what the cause of the fire was and what their plan will be Stewart says it will be hard to rebuild it into what it was.

“It was a historical building, so I think they have the right too, but it will never be the same.”

Roads in the surrounding area are closed to traffic and motorists are asked to find an alternate route.

No injuries are reported at this time.

 “Honestly, it’s a sad, sad day; a lot of people come here when they want a beer even if it is seen as the roughest spot in town,” says an emotional Stewart.