Fireman Injured, Historic Punxsutawney Hotel Destroyed

PUNXSUTAWNEY – An early morning fire Saturday destroyed the historic Punxsy Hotel Restaurant & Lounge, and resulted in at least one firemen being injured.

Dozens of firemen were called to the 6-alarm blaze just before 3:00 am, after callers reported a fire along North Findley Street.

Officials believe the fire may have started behind the hotel where the Smugler’s Inn bar is located.

Witnesses reported the hotel began crumbling and collapsing within 30 minutes of the fire breaking out.

A firemen, whose name has not been released, was reported to have suffered a minor head injury after parts of the building fell on him.

Several vehicles were also reported to have been damaged or destroyed from falling debris.

No other injuries were reported. Officials believe the hotel was unoccupied at the time of the fire.

A State Police Fire Marshal has been called to investigate the incident.