By Mary

Ray’s To Remain Open

Jerky Business Plans New Store in Ouray

MONTROSE — An early morning fire on Sunday caused about $40,000 in damage to the Ray’s Good Stuff jerky store south of Montrose, but the owner has vowed to press on with a new location in Ouray.

At approximately 5:04 a.m. Sunday, firefighters with Stations One and Two of the Montrose Fire Protection District were dispatched to Rays, located at 20413 U.S. Highway 550.

Upon arrival at 5:10 a.m., firefighters observed smoke and flames coming from the north side of the building, according to Montrose Fire Protection District Chief Tad Rowan.

FIRE AT RAYS - An early Sunday morning fire at Rays Good Stuff jerky store south of Montrose caused an estimated $20,000 in damage. The business has moved to Ouray. (Photo by William Woody)

FIRE AT RAYS – An early Sunday morning fire at Rays Good Stuff jerky store south of Montrose caused an estimated $20,000 in damage. The business has moved to Ouray. (Photo by William Woody)

“We did not determine an exact cause of the fire, but we were able to determine the exact origin,” Rowan said.

Rowan said the fire originated at a corner on the building’s north side, and that an investigation is ongoing.

About $20,000 worth of damage was inflicted on the building and another $20,000 worth of equipment inside was also destroyed.

Rowan said there was a significant amount of inventory in the store that was undamaged. Other parts of the store suffered heat and smoke damage. Firefighters left the scene at about 8:24 a.m.

A sign on the front door of the store said the business was closed but urged customers to visit its new location at 710 Main Street in Ouray.

Attempts to contact owner Ray Valentine were unsuccessful as of press time Wednesday. On Facebook, Valentine said he was appreciative of all the support he has received since the fire.

“Many thanks to my family, friends and neighbors who have lent a helping hand or a kind phone call and keeping things positive. So Very Appreciated…” Valentine wrote. “Weather permitting we will try and be outside at the picnic table for you die hard jerky lovers!”

Ray’s Good Stuff was founded in Ridgway in 2002. The company’s vast menu of products are sold in 250 stores throughout the region.