Fire in men’s bathroom shuts down Walmart for 2 hours on New Year’s Day.

WASILLA- A small fire broke out at the Walmart off Seward Meridian on New Year’s Day at 2:45 pm. There were reports of smoke coming from the ceiling and walls inside the men’s bathroom in the back of the building. Both Central Mat-Su Fire and Palmer Fire Departments responded to the call. The crews were able to extinguish the flames and there were no injuries. The store was evacuated and shut down for 2 hours. According to Mat-Su Borough Fire Deputy Director, Ken Barkley, the evacuation went over well. He said that the Walmart employees followed their protocol, cleared everyone out and secured the building.

“The employees did a really, really good job,” Barkley said.

Walmart is back in operation and the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Barkley said he hopes to have the report by the end of the week.