Apparent roof collapse forces Raleigh gas station employees to flee building

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Emergency crews responded to an apparent building collapse at a gas station in Raleigh Friday morning.

The incident was reported at a Han-Dee Hugo's gas station near the intersection of Hillsborough Street and Gorman Street, close to North Carolina State University.

Two employees were inside when they heard cracking sounds coming from the ceiling around 7:15 a.m., according to Raleigh fire officials. They evacuated the building, and then within seconds, the roof collapsed, sending doors, glass and merchandise flying out of the store.

ABC11 crews at the scene observed a large emergency response surrounding the building. Video from the scene appears to show significant structural damage. Some debris landed on Hillsborough Street, with merchandise scattered as far as 50 feet from the building.

No injuries were reported.

Fire officials have not officially determined what caused the collapse. While rainwater accumulation on the roof is believed to be a possible factor, the cause will be investigated by city building inspectors, who are expected to assess the damage.

The investigation remains ongoing.