Late Saturday night, a devastating fire ripped through the old Ralph Waldo Emerson High School in Gary, Indiana, leaving former students in shock and mourning. The Gary Fire Department took to Facebook to share pictures of the inferno, which showed flames shooting through the historic abandoned building. Firefighters from Merrillville and Munster were also called in to assist with the firefighting efforts.

The news of the fire spread quickly on social media, with former students expressing their sadness and nostalgia for their alma mater. One woman wrote, "This is so sad. I am forever an Emersonian," while another former student added, "Gone but your memories will forever live in our hearts. Class of 71." The school, which was the first high school built in Gary, Indiana, in 1909, holds a special place in the hearts of many.

According to Ball State University, Emerson High School had been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1995. However, it had been vacant for a decade after its closure in 2008, leading to concerns about its deteriorating condition. "Ok time for demolition, don't let it sit there abandoned and now burnt for another 25 years," commented one individual on the fire department's post. "They should've just let it melt on down... it was time," echoed another.

Over the years, the abandoned school had become a hotspot for vandalism and criminal activities. In 2015, tragedy struck when the body of a 17-year-old girl from Chicago was found strangled within the premises of the former high school. The incident had sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the need for increased security and vigilance in the area.

The fire, which was finally extinguished around 3:45 a.m. on Sunday, resulted in a large collapse of the building. Arson investigators have been called in to determine the cause of the fire. It was revealed that a similar fire had occurred in the building a few months ago, indicating possible arson.

In response to the incident, Gary Community School Corporation Manager Dr. Mike Raisnor expressed his concern in a statement, saying, "While the District no longer owns the property, we were disheartened to hear about the fire at the historic Emerson High School, also known as Emerson Center for Visual and Performing Arts. Thankfully, there were no injuries, and we are grateful to the members of the Gary Fire Department who risked their lives to extinguish the fire."

The loss of Emerson High School has left a void in the hearts of former students who cherished their time within its halls. As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, the community mourns the loss of a significant landmark and hopes for a brighter future for the site.