Kansas City, August 17, 2025
News Summary
A significant fire broke out at Mabry Hall in Kansas City early Wednesday morning. Firefighters rescued three residents who faced smoke inhalation. While the building suffered extensive damages, all rescued individuals are expected to recover. The cause is under investigation, and local businesses, including Fidel’s Cigar Shop, are responding to the impacts.
Kansas City
A fire erupted early Wednesday morning at a three-story building in Kansas City, leading to the rescue of three residents from the smoke-filled structure. The incident occurred just before 6 a.m. at a location known as Mabry Hall, situated at 41st Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. This historic building houses a tobacco shop and a restaurant on the ground floor, with apartments on the second and third floors.
Fire crews responded swiftly upon their arrival, finding smoke and flames pouring from the second floor. One occupant was trapped by the smoke and required assistance from firefighters, who helped them escape down an interior stairwell. Two additional residents managed to evacuate the building independently.
All three individuals were transported to a hospital to assess smoke inhalation, but their conditions are stable, and they are expected to fully recover.
Damage and Response
The fire inflicted significant damage on the building, particularly impacting Fidel’s Cigar Shop on the ground floor, which suffered water damage from firefighting efforts. Despite the extent of the fire, the building’s structure is deemed to be sound, although the second and third floors will require complete gutting. Repairs are anticipated to run into millions of dollars.
The cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation. The Westport Entertainment District released a statement regarding the incident, underscoring the well-being of all residents and noting assistance from the Red Cross, which is providing support to those affected by the fire.
Business Operations
As a direct consequence of the fire, Fidel’s Cigar Shop has closed temporarily but has arranged for customers to visit an alternative location at La Cultura Cigars on Southwest Boulevard. Brix Latin American Restaurant also faced disruption and chose to remain closed for the night of the fire; however, it plans to reopen the following day. Gambal’s Social Club, located nearby, was not affected by the fire and operated as usual later that day.
Historical Significance
Mabry Hall, one of Kansas City’s oldest surviving commercial properties, was reportedly built in 1843. Its historical value adds a layer of significance to the current crisis, raising concerns about the restoration of the building after the fire.
As the investigation into the fire’s origin continues, the community is coming together to support the affected residents and businesses, highlighting the resilience and strength of Kansas City’s Westport area.
Key Facts Summary
- Location: 41st Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, Kansas City
- Fire reported: Just before 6 a.m. on Wednesday
- Evacuations: Three residents – one rescued by firefighters, two self-evacuated
- Injuries: All three residents transported for smoke inhalation; expected to recover
- Business Impact: Fidel’s Cigar Shop closed; Brix Latin American Restaurant temporarily closed; Gambal’s Social Club unaffected
- Building’s Condition: Structurally sound; second and third floors will need millions in repairs
- Building History: Mabry Hall, built in 1843
- Investigation: Ongoing into the cause of the fire
FAQ Section
What caused the fire in Kansas City on Wednesday morning?
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Were there any injuries reported from the fire?
Three residents suffered from smoke inhalation and were transported to the hospital, but all are expected to recover.
Which businesses were affected by the fire?
Fidel’s Cigar Shop and Brix Latin American Restaurant were impacted, with Fidel’s closing temporarily and Brix planning to reopen the next day. Gambal’s Social Club was not affected and continued normal operations.
What is the historical significance of the building involved?
Mabry Hall, built in 1843, is one of Kansas City’s oldest remaining commercial properties and adds considerable historical value to the community.
Damage Report
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fire Start Time | Just before 6 a.m. |
| Rescued Individuals | Three (one assisted, two evacuated themselves) |
| Business Impacted | Fidel’s Cigar Shop and Brix Latin American Restaurant |
| Estimated Repair Costs | Millions of dollars |
| Building Age | Built in 1843 |
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Additional Resources
- KMBC: Kansas City House Fire
- Wikipedia: Kansas City
- Fox 4 KC: Three People Taken to Hospital
- Google Search: Kansas City fire
- KCTV5: Westport Apartment Fire
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kansas City
- Hays Post: Kansas City Fire Incident
- Google News: Fire in Kansas City
- KSHB: Restaurant Damaged in Overnight Fire
- Google Scholar: Kansas City fire incident
- KMBC: Firefighters Rescue Three from Westport Apartment
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
