UPDATE: Bankston’s Barber Shop and Salon reopened Thursday after Wednesday evening’s emergency response on Market Street.
According to reports, a crew working in a neighboring vacant building was using gas-powered pressure washers inside, causing carbon monoxide to build up. Bankston’s said its alarm system alerted the Barnesville Fire Department, and once the buildings were ventilated, the carbon monoxide cleared.
The incident was not an actual gas leak as originally reported.
One person reportedly experienced health complications and was taken to the hospital. No further update on that person’s condition was immediately available.
Original story (edited for accuracy): Market Street was shut down once again Wednesday evening, June 10, after carbon monoxide alarms raised concern in downtown Barnesville.
The concern began around closing time at Bankston’s Barber Shop and Salon when carbon monoxide alarms inside the business were set off. A smell in the area prompted officials to close the street while the situation was checked.
There was no fire Wednesday evening.
Wednesday’s shutdown was the latest disruption for a street that has faced continued trouble in recent months. On Sunday, a wall at Everything Beautiful was compromised, causing the historic building to collapse and adding to the challenges along Market Street as the area continues recovering from the March fire.
The March 2 fire displaced multiple businesses and caused major damage along the historic block.
While Wednesday evening’s incident did not involve flames, the smell of gas and the sounding of alarms brought emergency officials back to Market Street out of caution.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
