Fire engulfs Full Throttle Saloon in Sturgis

It appears from pictures and various news reports the fire may have encompassed the famous establishment which bills itself as the ‘world’s largest biker bar’.

The Full Throttle Saloon, just east of Sturgis, is one of the most popular destinations during the annual rally.

The fire department remained on the scene throughout the day to mop-up operations, Lensegrav said. “We came around to the front-side garage doors on the north side of the building and cut a hole in it to make entry to the building”.

Sturgis Assistant Fire Chief Shawn Barrows told the Argus Leader intense heat and smoke prevented firefighters from getting inside.

Investigators are unsure of what caused the fire but believe it was accelerated by an adjoining distillery that contained 500 gallons of grain alcohol. Its amenities include zip lines, musical stages and rental cabins. Water had to be trucked in from a local school, further hampering firefighting efforts.

There were no injuries reported.

Saloon employee Dean Mauldin, who was looking over the smoldering wreckage Tuesday morning, said it gave him a sick feeling, according to the Argus Leader.

The bar also enjoys American reality television series that chronicles the daily operations of the world’s largest biker bar.

The bar is owned by Michael Ballard and his wife Angie.