A two-alarm fire devastated the Curve Inn, a popular Springfield-area dive bar, on Feb. 20, 2026. The blaze broke out around 9 a.m. in Southern View, with heavy smoke and flames engulfing the beer garden and spreading to the main two-story building. Assistant Fire Chief Julie Plunk reported that extreme wind gusts complicated firefighting efforts.

Fire crews battled the blaze for approximately 45 minutes, with around 30 Springfield Fire personnel responding to the scene. The fire caused extensive smoke damage to both floors of the bar and a partial roof collapse in the beer garden area. Owner Ami Merchant was present with staff when smoke was spotted, and everyone evacuated safely without injuries.

Merchant, who has owned the Curve Inn for 23 years, expressed deep concern for her longtime employees. The building, dating back to 1932, held significant community value. Local business owners like Bree Mendenhall rallied to support firefighters with refreshments. The cause remains under investigation, though multiple heaters and grills were present in the beer garden. No damage estimate has been released as firefighters continue overhaul operations at the scene.