The Franklin Walmart, closed after a fire broke out July 14, is partially reopening July 19, according a social media post by the store.
“Your Franklin Walmart will reopen a portion of the store at 10 a.m. tomorrow,” the July 18 post on the retailer’s Facebook page said. “We have put in a lot of hard work to reopen the store for our customers.”
The fire, which first responders estimated led to millions of dollars in merchandise damage, is still under investigation. Franklin police took a 10-year-old boy into custody for questioning on arson charges which the department said will be referred to the Milwaukee County Juvenile Justice center.
The store at 6701 S. 27th St. has remained closed since the incident.
What is known about the fire?
Just before 9 p.m. July 14, fire and police personnel were sent to the Franklin Walmart where responders found heavy smoke and visible flames according to news releases from the Franklin police and fire departments.
Everyone evacuated safely with no reported injuries, according to authorities.
The building’s fire sprinkler system activated, which assisted firefighters who extinguished the fire during the evacuation.
Fire department officials said there was extensive smoke damage throughout the store “resulting in the loss of merchandise estimated to be several million dollars.”
A Walmart spokesperson told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via email that customers should visit the Walmart at 3355 S. 27th St. in Milwaukee for any pharmacy needs.
Contact Erik S. Hanley at erik.hanley@jrn.com. Like his Facebook page, The Redheadliner, and follow him on X @Redheadliner.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Following fire, Walmart in Franklin to partially reopen July 19