Little Rock, Arkansas – Firefighters remained at the scene Sunday night after a large fire broke out at the La Quinta hotel on Commerce Road in Bryant, prompting a major emergency response from departments across central Arkansas.
The Bryant Fire Department was called to the hotel shortly after 4 p.m. after reports of a structure fire. Crews immediately began evacuating the building as smoke and flames moved through the property. Officials said no injuries had been reported while firefighters worked for several hours to bring the fire under control.
The blaze proved challenging for emergency crews as flames spread throughout the hotel. According to Stuart Duke, deputy director of Saline County Emergency Management, the fire reached all four floors of the building, with the most severe fire conditions occurring on the fourth floor.
Multiple agencies joined the response to help battle the fire and provide support. A total of 10 fire departments from communities across central Arkansas assisted Bryant firefighters during the operation. The large response was needed because of the size of the building and the extent of the fire.
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Pafford EMS also responded to the scene, helping firefighters by providing water and additional support as crews worked in difficult conditions and high temperatures.
Emergency officials said the focus remained on ensuring the fire was fully contained and that the area was safe. Fire investigators are now working to determine what caused the blaze and how it started.
The investigation could take time as officials examine the damaged areas of the hotel and collect information from the scene. No cause has been announced at this time.
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The fire also affected traffic in the area, with motorists being advised to expect road closures near the hotel while emergency crews continued their work. Drivers were encouraged to use alternate routes and remain cautious around the area.
The Bryant Fire Department and assisting agencies continued monitoring the scene as investigators began their review. Officials have not released additional details about the condition of the hotel or whether guests will be able to return to the property.
Authorities are expected to provide more information once the investigation progresses and more details about the fire become available.
