Fire destroys building in downtown Smithers

An early morning fire destroyed one large building and spread to an adjacent building in downtown Smithers, B.C.today, just steps away from a new square and stage where the city recently celebrated its centennial.

Fire officials say the blaze broke out around 4 a.m. PT on the 1000 block of Main Street, next to Bovill Square.

About 50 members of the Smithers Volunteer Fire Department were on the scene Wednesday, cleaning up andhosing down hotspots on Main Street.

"This is a tragic loss for two local business owners and for our whole community. We are thankful that the fire is now under control and most importantly that there have been no injuries," said Smithers Mayor Taylor Bachrach in a statement.

B.C. Hydro says about 100 customers lost powerthis morning, but should have it restored later today.

The cause of the fire is not knownyet known and there are no reported injuries.