***Update*** 9/2: Georgia State Fire Marshal offers $10,000 reward for information regarding Wednesday’s fire that leads to the arrest and conviction of the culprit. If you have any information, please contact Detective Jerry Parrish at 404-783-7036 or Officer Denny Reyes at 706-657-4167 ext. 116
One of Dade County and the City of Trenton’s oldest buildings, the Trenton Depot, was partially destroyed early Wednesday morning. Fire departments were alerted at 2:26 AM to respond to 90 Railway Lane, which was engulfed in flame and smoke upon arrival.
Photo by Dade County, GA Facebook Page
Dade County Commission Chairman Ted Rumley commented that, upon first look, the fire appears to have been intentionally set. Rumley continued that, while the damage was considerable, he believes the building to be salvageable and not beyond repair. Georgia State Fire Marshal is arriving on the scene Wednesday to launch a detailed investigation.
The depot was part of the Alabama Great Southern Railroad and Chattanooga Railroad systems, and served as a working depot into late 70’s. In recent years, the depot had been home to the Dade County Chamber of Commerce, prior to their move onto the courthouse square. The building has stood vacant for many years; however Dade County officials had recently begun renovation projects with the intent of using the depot as a home for the new Board of Elections and Trenton Voting Precincts.
If you have any information regarding this possible arson, please call the Trenton City Police and Fire Department at (706) 657-4167 or the Dade County Commissioners Office at (706) 657-4625
by Orey Yates
