By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The Larned Fire Department responded to a report of a fire at Rodeway Inn at around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 18. Guests and staff were evacuated from the motel on 14th Street, or US 56 Highway.
Larned Fire Chief
Leonard Herrman said crews from Larned and Great Bend responded to the scene.
"There were flames showing out of a vent from the top of the motel when we got there," said Herrman. "We made entry and gained access into the attic to put the fire out. Operations took about five hours."
The fire was on the south side of the attic. Herrman said fire, smoke and water
damage exists on the second floor.
Herrman stated the confirmed cause of the fire is not determined, but the
reported cause was a lightning strike to the building.