BEAUMONT, Texas — One year after a massive fire engulfed the Gilbert Building in downtown Beaumont, the property remains at the center of an ongoing arson investigation and a contentious legal battle between the city and building owner Tom Flanagan that could result in demolition.

The fire, which happened a year ago on June 6, 2024, required more than 24 hours and millions of gallons of water to extinguish. Firefighters faced significant challenges accessing the building due to its interior condition, Beaumont Fire Chief Earl White said at the time.

"What's hindering us is not being able to enter the building -- because of the interior condition of the building," White said during the firefighting efforts.

To stream 12NewsNow on your phone, you need the 12NewsNow app.

Download the 12

See Full Page