KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A routine afternoon in downtown Keene was disrupted on Tuesday when a vehicle crashed into the storefront of Targett Cleaners on Ashuelot Street, causing significant structural damage but fortunately resulting in no injuries.

The incident occurred just before 1 p.m. p.m. when Keene emergency services were alerted to a report of a vehicle embedded in the building’s entrance, with concerns that an occupant remained inside, according to a news release. First responders arrived at the scene just two minutes later, finding that the vehicle had backed out of the building and the driver, uninjured, was still behind the wheel.

According to Deputy Fire Chief Gregory Seymour, while the vehicle itself suffered minor to moderate damage, including airbag deployment, the storefront’s entryway sustained severe structural harm, requiring immediate stabilization efforts, the release said. Crews from the Keene Fire Department utilized specialized equipment to secure the compromised area.

To ensure safety, firefighters inspected the building, disconnected utilities, and worked closely with contractors who arrived to provide more permanent structural support. Representatives from the city’s Fire Marshal’s Office and Community Development Department also assisted in evaluating the damage and guiding the property owner, TD Properties of Keene, LLC, through the next steps for repair.

The damage to the building is estimated to be between $15,000 and $30,000. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Keene Police Department, who have not yet released further details about the driver or circumstances leading to the incident.

While no injuries were reported, officials praised the swift response of the 12 Keene fire personnel involved, who had the situation under control within 30 minutes. The scene was cleared, and fire units returned to quarters by 1:40 p.m.

For ongoing updates, the public is advised to contact Deputy Fire Chief Seymour or the Keene Police Department.