Fire at gun range in Horsham destroys family business of 40 years

Fire at gun range in Montgomery County destroys family business

Fire crews battled a large fire that broke out at Clayton's Indoor Shooting Range in Montgomery County.

HORSHAM, Pa. - A devastating fire has left Clayton’s indoor shooting range in ruins, but thankfully, everyone is safe, including the store's beloved pets.

What we know:

The fire began Monday at around 2:20 p.m. on the 600 block of Easton Road.

Multiple fire departments are on the scene, and the building has been evacuated with no injuries reported. 

Thick black smoke was visible in the sky, and Easton Road remained closed as crews worked to control the situation. 

Firefighters battle flames for hours 

Firefighters worked tirelessly Monday night to control the blaze that engulfed Clayton’s indoor shooting range.

Fire Chief Lee Greenberg said they were dispatched to the scene shortly after 2:30 p.m. following reports of explosions. 

These sounds were likely from the HVAC system, where the fire is believed to have started. 

The fire caused major damage, including a partial roof collapse. 

Chief Greenberg noted the fire was difficult to access due to the range's construction with steel and thick rubber. 

Fortunately, the fire was contained to the range area and did not spread to the showroom or stock area. 

A family business impacted 

Clayton’s has been a family business for over 40 years, and the fire is a significant loss for the community. 

Jaclyn Wipplinger, a longtime family friend, expressed relief that no one was hurt and shared her emotional connection to the business. 

"I feel for the family because they’re always the first to help somebody else out," said Wipplinger. 

She added that the store's mascots, Trish the cat and Drake the dog, are safe, and the community is grateful for everyone's safety. 

What we don't know:

The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, and it is unclear when or if the business will be able to rebuild.