MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Fire Department said a large fire that destroyed a gas station in the Poplar Plaza area was accidental, caused by an electrical malfunction.
Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, firefighters responded to the call just before 2 p.m. at the Exxon at Poplar and Highland. It took them almost 50 minutes to bring the fire under control.
ABC24 crews saw firefighters battling the flames, which engulfed the gas station. Investigators said the fire started inside the store near the electrical panels.
Memphis Police blocked off intersection of Poplar Avenue and South Highland Street as firefighters battled the blaze. According to MPD, employees were inside the gas station at the time the fire broke out, and everyone made it out of the store. MFD said no one was injured.
MFD said the total damage caused was about $1.5 million; $750,000 to the building and $750,000 to the inside contents.
