ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. — The scene of a fire that broke out in St. Pete Beach on Tuesday afternoon is still active as of Wednesday morning, officials said.
Fire crews battled the large fire at the CVS at 4685 Gulf Boulevard, which started around 2:45 p.m.
According to officials on the scene, at least three businesses were affected. CVS is at a total loss. Publix and Swim City appear to be affected by smoke and water damage.
WATCH: Fire guts businesses on St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach Fire Rescue said all stores near the CVS inside the Gulf Village Shopping Plaza were evacuated while fire crews worked to extinguish the fire. It was contained by around 11:30 p.m.
Susan Adams was starting her first day working at Publix when she heard the alarm and was told to evacuate.
She came to see the damage Wednesday morning.
“When I left last night it wasn’t on fire but this morning I come and it’s unbelievable…surreal… just like it wasn’t real," said Adams.
Frederick Denike also watched the beloved shopping plaza catch fire.
“Yesterday I drove over here around 7 o’clock last night to pick up my prescription drugs, and the place was in flames. It was horrible. It’s going to be a loss for the community," said Denike.
WATCH: Fire crews battle fire at CVS on St. Pete Beach
Three alarms were called at the location, and fire crews from Lealman, Pinellas Park, Gulfport, St. Pete, and Treasure Island worked with St. Pete Beach fire to fight the blaze.
There was a partial roof collapse after fire crews went inside, St Pete Beach Fire said. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Despite what the beach community has been through over the last year, Adams said they will recover.
"It’s been unbelievable. It’s been a rollercoaster, it really has been. But that’s okay. Everything will work out okay," said Adams.
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