Full Breakdown
Fire Engulfs Historic Graystone Inn in Wilmington
11/15/2025, 1:17:42 AM
Overview of the Incident
On November 14, 2025, a significant fire broke out at the Graystone Inn, a historic bed-and-breakfast located at 100 S. Third Street in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina. The Wilmington Fire Department received reports of the blaze around 1 p.m., prompting a swift response from multiple fire units, including assistance from New Hanover County Fire Rescue and Leland Fire Department. By 2 p.m., parts of the roof had begun to collapse, and the fire was reported to be under control later in the afternoon. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as the building was unoccupied at the time.
Background of the Graystone Inn
The Graystone Inn, originally built as a private residence between 1905 and 1906, has been a prominent fixture in Wilmington's historic district. It underwent extensive renovations after a previous fire in June 2023, which was determined to be accidental and originated in the kitchen. The inn had been closed since that incident, with owners Ace and Jamie Alfalla investing millions in repairs and upgrades. The inn was expected to reopen soon, following its closure due to the earlier fire.
Fire Response and Challenges
Fire Chief Steve Mason highlighted the difficulties of battling fires in older structures like the Graystone Inn, noting that such buildings often have complex void spaces that can allow fires to spread rapidly. The fire department requested Duke Energy to shut off power in the vicinity to ensure the safety of the firefighters. Smoke and flames were visible from the roof, and traffic was redirected as emergency crews worked to contain the situation.
Community Impact and Reactions
The fire elicited strong emotional responses from local residents, many of whom gathered to witness the event. Longtime Wilmington resident Lydia Huggins expressed her sorrow, stating, "Each building down here is like a piece of home for me." The Graystone Inn has served as a venue for various community events, making its loss particularly poignant for those who cherished the establishment.
Official Statements
Wilmington Fire Department officials confirmed that all firefighters were accounted for and that the fire was under control. Chief Mason remarked on the significance of the loss, stating, “It really is a shame that this building caught fire... I wished we could have saved it.” The Wilmington Police Department also issued warnings for residents to avoid the area due to ongoing firefighting efforts.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While most reports indicate the fire started around 1 p.m., there are discrepancies regarding the exact time of the initial call, with some sources citing 1:40 p.m. Additionally, the cause of the fire remains under investigation, with no definitive information available at this time.
What's Next
As the situation develops, further assessments will be conducted to determine the full extent of the damage and the cause of the fire. The Wilmington Fire Department will also initiate an investigation into the incident, which is crucial given the building's historical significance and previous fire history.
