Two-alarm fire destroys The Old Pink on Allen Street

Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - An iconic nightlife business in the City of Buffalo's Allentown neighborhood is no more.

The Old Pink, located at 223 Allen Street at the corner of Mariner Street, went up in flames in the early morning hours on Monday after the Buffalo Fire Department responded to the report of a fire around 5:45 a.m. ET. The fire had reportedly started near the rear end of the building before quickly spreading toward the front of the building.

Firefighters battled the two-alarm fire for a few hours before it was eventually extinguished. The Old Pink was considered a total loss, and later torn down as the result of an emergency demolition just before 3 p.m. ET.

According to Buffalo Fire Commissioner William Renaldo, total damages are estimated to be around $1.25 million - $750,000 to the building and $500,000 to its contents.

Fillmore District Councilman Mitch Nowakowski, who represents Allentown, said Monday morning it was a sad day "for not only the residents, but the businesses and really the fabric of the Allentown community as this structure is really close to the identity to a lot of Buffalonians."

The Old Pink issued the follow statement on Instagram in the hours after the devastating fire:

"Thank you for all the love and support. Today was a devastating day for our staff, community and the Brinkworth family. The Old Pink is currently being torn down and by the end of the day, will be gone completely. Please come by the site and mourn with us. Our legacy will live on through you."

It was reported that a few employees were still on-hand after the bar had closed earlier in the morning, but everyone was able to escape unharmed, and no other injuries were reported in the fire.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.