Roof falls in on Williamstown's Grand Theater
The Grand Theater in Williamstown was once seen by officials as a catalyst for revitalization. But it's roof collapsed yesterday, possibly as the result of the rough winter, and one person was injured.
A few years ago, the Grand Theater in Williamstown was seen by municipal officials as a catalyst for the revitalization of the downtown business district.
The Monroe Township movie theater, dating to 1927, received extensive renovations in 2004 and hosted live theatrical performances.
On Friday, the back roof over the stage area collapsed, apparently as a result of damage from the winter's heavy snows, authorities said.
At least one person was injured and two others were being evaluated at hospitals, officials said.
The theater - known for its wall sconces, raised-metal ceilings, and velour seats - housed two apartments in the front. Both were occupied and shook as the roof fell.
The first report of the collapse was received about 3 p.m., Williamstown Fire Chief James DeHart said. Residents heard a loud crash and felt a jolt, he said.
Apartment resident Daniel Bates, 47, fell down about 20 stairs as he helped evacuate his wife, Gail Bates, 48, and their grandchildren, ages 2 and 1, Monroe Township police said. The family's dog and cat survived and were taken in by a neighbor.
Daniel Bates was being treated late Friday at Cooper University Medical Center, officials said. Gail Bates was being evaluated at John F. Kennedy Hospital in Turnersville, Monroe Township Police Capt. Tony Pace said.
Another person, who was not identified, also was being checked at a local hospital.
Three families were displaced, including two in the theater building and another in an adjacent apartment building, DeHart said.
The 318-seat theater on Main Street is owned by the Road Company Theater Group Inc. of Turnersville.
While officials checked the property, the nearby Hall Street apartments were evacuated and the area was cordoned off. Broken cinder blocks and roof debris lay alongside the building.
Electric and water service to the area also was shut off as the condition of the building was evaluated.
Six years ago, the theater got $130,000 in renovations to the roof, windows, and electrical, plumbing, air-conditioning, and heating systems.
A fund-raising event was scheduled for Saturday night to raise money to fix the roof.
"I attended shows here," Lorraine Slye of Audubon said as she stood with a crowd Friday outside the Grand. "They had shows here from straight drama to musicals. . . . It's a shame."