Fire Engulfs St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club in Panama City, Florida

PANAMA CITY, FL — The St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club was devastated by a fierce blaze that erupted earlier this morning, sending plumes of smoke billowing into the sky, as confirmed by the Panama City Police Department. The fire prompted the closure of Bunkers Cove road, diverting all traffic from the area.

Eyewitnesses on the scene reported what they saw on Facebook. A shortage of water hindered firefighter's efforts, leaving them scrambling for resources to quell the flames. Michael Petty, a local resident, lamented the loss of the cherished establishment, reminiscing about the cherished moments the club provided for the neighborhood.

"Tough morning as we lost the building housing the St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club and hub of our neighborhood," Petty expressed. "Holding dear to fond memories of holiday meals, Cove burgers with bacon and wrapped in lettuce, evenings on the deck with kids playing about, swimming and fellowshipping."

Amid the chaos, discussions emerged about challenges with and inoperable hydrant and the area's infrastructure, amplifying the strain on the hardworking first responders.

Panama City Commissioner Jenna Haligas commended on her Facebook page the valor and collaboration of the firefighters. "Water pressure was too low across the street, and trucks had to round to another hydrant on 2nd to fill up trucks. Bay County Fire dept assisted, and it was incredible teamwork," Haligas recounted.

William Harrison, another witness, highlighted the situation faced by the firefighters, stressing, "These firemen are out of water. They’re waiting on tanker trucks to fill bladders with water so they can spray the flames. Tanker trucks are coming in bringing water for them to fight the fire."

While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the state fire marshal has taken charge at the scene. Despite the terrible loss of the Yacht Club, the community remains resilient.

Several community organizations meet at the yacht club. A luncheon for the St Andrews Bay chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was scheduled to have their 75th Anniversary luncheon at the club on Thursday. The Captains meeting for the December Boat parade was to be held Thursday night. Many other community organizations will be rescheduling events.