According to San Diego Fire-Rescue Department (SDFD), the fire was reported around 10 a.m., and 30 firefighters were dispatched to the scene. Smoke from the blaze was visible from nearby freeways, underscoring the intensity of the flames. Crews are currently working to contain the fire, and no injuries have been reported at this time. Witnesses capture video showing thick black smoke billowing into the sky and prompting a swift response from the SDFD. Located at 5373 Mission Center Road, the structure was fully engulfed by flames when firefighters arrived.
This is the second fire at the same location in less than two months. On October 26, 2024, a massive two-alarm fire consumed the 11,821-square-foot building, which has sat vacant since InCahoots closed its doors on January 1, 2019. During the October incident, more than 60 firefighters battled the inferno, employing drones with infrared technology to monitor and contain the flames.
The former dance hall, a beloved landmark for over 25 years, was known for its country-western atmosphere, line-dancing lessons, and Wild West décor. Originally founded by Texas native David Borlick in 1992, it was later owned by Suzanne Wales of Houston, TX, and managed by Gary Martin. Despite its popularity, the venue shuttered after its final New Year's Eve celebration due to the sale of the property, leaving it to languish for years as a vacant and vandalized shell.
The cause of the Christmas Day fire remains under investigation, with the Metro Arson Strike Team expected to examine the site once the flames are extinguished. Traffic in the area has been impacted, with San Diego Police Department establishing control measures on Mission Center Road and advising motorists to avoid the vicinity.
As of now, there are no updates on the future of the property or plans for redevelopment. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
This is the second fire at the same location in less than two months. On October 26, 2024, a massive two-alarm fire consumed the 11,821-square-foot building, which has sat vacant since InCahoots closed its doors on January 1, 2019. During the October incident, more than 60 firefighters battled the inferno, employing drones with infrared technology to monitor and contain the flames.
The former dance hall, a beloved landmark for over 25 years, was known for its country-western atmosphere, line-dancing lessons, and Wild West décor. Originally founded by Texas native David Borlick in 1992, it was later owned by Suzanne Wales of Houston, TX, and managed by Gary Martin. Despite its popularity, the venue shuttered after its final New Year's Eve celebration due to the sale of the property, leaving it to languish for years as a vacant and vandalized shell.
Public records indicate that the property was purchased in 2018 by Bridge California LLC, a self-identified furniture business, for $3.7 million. Since then, the site has been plagued by neglect and incidents of vandalism. In 2020, SDFD responded to an exterior fire at the location, and today’s fire marks at least the third major blaze to occur there in recent years.
The cause of the Christmas Day fire remains under investigation, with the Metro Arson Strike Team expected to examine the site once the flames are extinguished. Traffic in the area has been impacted, with San Diego Police Department establishing control measures on Mission Center Road and advising motorists to avoid the vicinity.
As of now, there are no updates on the future of the property or plans for redevelopment. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Originally published on December 25, 2024.
