Family owned business burns down

PHILLIPSBURG, Ohio (WDTN) - A Phillipsburg family was picking up the pieces on Monday, after flames destroyed their business.

The small, family owned business caught on fire just after 5 PM on Sunday night. Witnesses said the blaze could be seen for up to 40 miles.

Bill Lafferty, a close family friend said, the brothers who ran KRW Cycles off State Route 49 in Phillipsburg, were devastated by the loss. The place was more than a landmark, it was a livelihood for the family.

"Their life was in there. There was motorcycles of customers, there was a motorcycle shop and race cars, memorabilia, family photos, and memories that they'll never be able to replace," said Lafferty.

Six fire departments responded to fight the flames fanned by the gusty winds. The fire was fed by motor oil and rubber. Authorities believed it may have started somewhere near the fence line, then spread toward the buildings. The smoke was visible up to 40 miles away..

Lafferty said one of the brothers actually had an apartment in the shop, and he had lost everything he owned in the fire.

"Its unbelievable. I can't imagine the brothers are both in their 60's, close to 70. Everything they worked for is gone," said Lafferty.

The worst part of this tragedy was the timing. The family had lapsed on their insurance for a few months because of the economy. They were outraged at the idea that fire investigators might think this fire started suspiciously.

"It's bunk, for one thing why would somebody burn a place they didn't have insurance. Not to mention, they've been here so many years, they've lost everything. They've lost everything and now they have to pay for all these customers motorcycles. They don't know how they're going to do it, because they don't have a place to work now," said Lafferty.

The family planned to set up a fund at Fifth Third bank, and set up a benefit. Stay tuned to 2 News for details, when plans are finalized.