Fire destroys popular Dill's grocery store in NE Georgia

ROYSTON, Ga. - A devastating fire erupted in Royston just after midnight, threatening to obliterate Dill's Food City in Royston.

According to local fire officials, the intensity of the blaze was so severe that flames were seen shooting through the roof upon their arrival. It took a staggering million gallons of water to finally bring the situation under control.

"A little over a third of it was fully involved from the back side to the front. It spread pretty rapidly throughout the building, but it was contained just to Dill's Grocery Store itself," said Fire Chief Matt Elrod.

Elrod, who had a personal connection to the establishment having worked there in the past, expressed his sentiments about the unfortunate incident.

"Dills has been around for many, many, many, many years. Most everybody who has been a teenager who grew up here everybody has worked here including myself," he said in an interview with FOX 5. "It's very unfortunate for the city, and especially for the Dill family who owns the store. They've been an integral part of this community for a long time, and the store has served as a staple in our daily lives."

Firefighters from several counties responded to the fire. One firefighter was treated for smoke inhalation.

Dill's grocery store has a longstanding history in Royston, having been deeply involved in community activities, particularly in sports and various local organizations.

The fire department says the grocery store is a complete loss.