Michael Bushnell
Oct. 21, 2015
Northeast News

KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Snyder’s Supermarket has been a staple along the Independence Avenue corridor for over 45 years.

But after last week’s tragic fire that claimed the lives of two Kansas City firefighters, the store has remained closed, part of a massive investigation scene that is still being overseen by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Enforcement [ATF], local police and fire authorities as the cause for the fire is still being investigated.

Despite the extended closure, store owners gathered their employees in the UMB Bank parking lot Wednesday morning and distributed payroll, just like every other Wednesday.

“Wednesday is payday,” General Manager Jennelle James said. “Their bills and commitments don’t stop just because we’re temporarily closed. We’re family owned and these employees are like our extended family.”

James noted that the store is committed to re-opening in the near future, after the cause of the fire is determined.

“Right now, our thoughts are with the families of the fallen firefighters and the families of our displaced employees,” James said.

Officials close to the investigation said that the site could be released back to residents as soon as this Friday, depending on how quickly the investigation goes. Store Owner Jerry James indicated Snyder’s could reopen in four to six weeks.