Fire ravages iconic Panama City Beach souvenir shop

Gulf Coast Beaches News & EntertainmentJaws Souvenirs fire, Aug. 21, 2026Courtesy of the Bay County Sheriff's OfficeBay County officials responded this morning to a fire at beloved Panama City Beach shop Jaws Souvenirs on Thomas Drive.Bay County Fire Rescue said in a Facebook post that no injuries have been reported as of 8:00 a.m. on Friday.Panama City Beach Fire Rescue, Panama City Fire Department, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office provided assistance, according to the post.Thomas Drive was closed from Upas Street to Walnut at 6:30 a.m. while responders worked to put out the fire, according to a Facebook post from BCSO.Drivers were advised to take alternate routes and avoid the area.The store has become a popular stop for families visiting the Gulf over the last two decades due to its low prices (everything in the store is $9.99 or less) and its iconic shark entrance.Locals and frequent Panama City Beach visitors shared their memories of the shop in BCSO Facebook comments Friday morning. “So sad, I remember always wanting to go to this place when we stayed at the Dunes of Panama,” one woman wrote.Heather Gann is a breaking news and Birmingham metro reporter for AL.com. Prior to her role in breaking news, Gann covered any issues that directly impacted Birmingham metro area residents for The Birmingham...