BENTON, Ark. (KATV) — A longtime downtown Benton business was destroyed after its building collapsed under the weight of ice and snow from last week’s winter storm, county officials said.
CJ’z Downtown Billiards, a popular gathering spot for years, was reduced to debris after the structure failed during the storm. Saline County officials said it is one of several buildings across the county that collapsed amid heavy winter weather.
“This is a lot worse than what we thought it was,” said Tara Maltby, a friend of the business owners. “It was just kind of shock and heartbreak and devastation.”
Cleanup efforts began Thursday afternoon. Inside the collapsed building, pool tables, equipment and personal items remain buried beneath the wreckage, along with years of memories tied to the downtown staple.
“I think right now it’s just kind of waiting and seeing what happens,” Maltby said. “Getting through this process, tearing down what they can, and then hoping they can get in to salvage some of the items that are still there.”
County leaders said CJ’z is not the only structure impacted by the storm. The Saline County Road Department building also collapsed, highlighting the severity of the snow and ice accumulation.
“It’s just an indicator of how heavy this frozen precipitation is and was, and what it will do to structures and property around the county,” said Saline County Judge Matt Brumley.
For those closest to CJ’z, the future remains uncertain.
“We’re just kind of not sure what the next steps are going to be or what they can do right now,” Maltby said.
As cleanup continues, Maltby said the loss extends beyond the physical building and serves as a reminder of the challenges facing small businesses after the storm.
“When you’re able to get out and do things, small businesses are really needing our support and the community to come together in different ways for them,” she said.
County officials warn that damaged buildings remain unsafe to enter as assessments continue. Saline County is asking residents to report any collapsed or partially collapsed structures by calling 501-317-2106.
