Historic Fire Chief's Memorial in Norristown, Pennsylvania destroyed by fire

NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) -- A historic landmark honoring firefighters who served in Norristown, Pennsylvania was destroyed overnight in a fire.

The Norristown Fire Department posted on Facebook early Wednesday morning that a 2-alarm fire broke out at the more than 100-year-old Fire Chief's Memorial, which was located in Elmwood Park on Harding Boulevard.

"It's a sad morning for the Norristown Fire Department," the post said. "The building may be gone, but we will never forget!"

The memorial also served as a bandshell that hosted community concerts and events.

In a statement, Norristown Council President Tom Lepera said local and state agencies have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

"Municipal Council is devastated by the loss of the Fire Chief's Memorial Bandshell at Elmwood Park," he said. "For over 100 years the bandshell has provided entertainment to the Norristown community, hosting local bands during our Summer Concert Series, celebrating our country's independence for the Fourth of July, and enjoying other community events throughout the year. Council and the administration will work quickly to rebuild the bandshell."

The final Summer Concert Series event of the season was scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 1. Lepera said updated details for the concert and remaining Movie Nights at the Park will be announced soon.

The area around the bandshell is restricted and currently fenced off, though the rest of Elmwood Park is open for visitors.