MOUNT DORA, Fla. — A Mount Dora business owner said he will rebuild in the same location he's had for decades after a devastating fire overnight.
A building at Ro-Mac Lumber and Supply on West Old U.S. Highway 441 caught fire just after 8 p.m. Wednesday, and the flames spread to a nearby home, Lake County Fire Rescue officials said.
Investigators said palm trees outside the building were surrounded by growth and the vines tangled with power lines, which eventually sparked the fire.
Photos: Lumberyard business in Mount Dora catches fire
"The building itself is certainly a total loss, as well as all the inventory. Some of the inventory looks OK, but we're taking the stance that because of the heat we're just going to get rid of it," said business owner Dan Robuck.
Robuck said his company is insured, but knows there will be some uncovered costs.
"Best thing is none of the employees were there and no one was hurt and we'll build back, and business will go on as usual," said Robuck.
Police had the road closed between Morningside Drive and Gordon Lane for several hours.
The house -- with four people, including two children, inside-- sustained severe damage. The family is getting help from the Red Cross.
Dozens of firefighters from multiple departments helped put out the blaze.
Residents in the surrounding neighborhood walked out of their homes to see what was going on.
"We came out of the house. We were scared. My little sister was crying. We were just, we thought the house was going to catch on fire," said witness Matthew Short.
Robuck said as soon as the fire investigation is over, they'll pull the permits to clear the warehouse and replace it.