LAUREL, Miss. (WDAM) – It was a busy day in the City Beautiful as fire crews from Laurel and Ellisville worked tirelessly to contain a big blaze at the old Kress Building.

Laurel Fire Chief Leo Brown said the call came in around 5:15 a.m.

“Units arrived on scene, heavy smoke was showing, so we had to determine where the flames were coming from,” said Brown.

It was determined that the fire started at the top of the building, Brown said, and water damage now lies in the lower floors.

“We assisted as much as we could,” said Chief Earl Reed. “We blocked off all the intersections that we could. I think there was major, major damage to the hotel.”

According to Laurel Police Chief Earl Reed, the fire is under control, but firefighters are still working to put out the fire.

“This fire is devastating on several levels because number one, this is such a historic landmark in downtown Laurel,” said Caroline Burks, Laurel Main Street Executive Director.

About two years ago, construction began on renovating the building into the Heirloom Hotel. It is a major project from the creators of Home Town, an HGTV series.

The building was set to open this year.

“They have their own family heirlooms in this building,” said Burks. “They have given so much time and so much of their love and their legacy to this building that watching this happen just hurts on a different level.”

Reed also confirmed that there is no threat to surrounding buildings, just the hotel.

There are no injuries, according to Reed. Reed also said that there is no evidence of a crime.

This is a breaking news story. Information and updates will be provided as they are made available.

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