JEROMESVILLE, Ohio — One man was found dead after a fire ripped through several businesses on West Main Street in Jeromesville Sunday, according to the Jeromesville Fire Department.
Firefighters from the Jeromesville Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 8 West Main Street around 5:30 a.m.
Crews reported heavy fire conditions on the second floor of the building, located west of the J-Ville Pub.
While firefighters worked to control the fire, they were pushed back by heavy fire conditions and a roof collapse.
The fire spread to the pub and Remaley Auction House.
After conditions allowed firefighters to search the buildings, a man was found dead on the second floor of 10 West Main.
The Ashland County Coroner has not released his name, but the manager of J-Ville Pub, Curtis Hawks, described the victim as a good friend.
"He was a big biker and has traveled all across the United States. He had the greatest stories," Hawks said. "All he loved in the world was his motorcycle and his dog."
The dog also died in the fire, Hawks told News 5.
The fire heavily damaged the pub. Hawks said he hopes the owner rebuilds.
"It's all devastating really. We lost all of our livelihood. It was a big part of the community here."
The Ohio State Fire Marshals Office responded to help investigate the fire.
Jeromesville Fire Chief Todd Elliott said it could take several weeks for a cause to be determined.
"This was truly a group effort to contain this fire. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the deceased," said Jeromesville Assistant Fire Chief John Cutlip.
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