Dante's Inferno; Local restaurant gutted in overnight blaze
New Philadelphia Fire Department responded to the commercial structure fire in the century old building around 2:30 a.m. When New Philadelphia Engine 2101 arrived on scene, fire was coming from the back of the building, said Fire Chief Jim Parrish.
The building's kitchen is located on the side, near the back, however, the cause and origin of the fire is yet to be determined, as the state fire marshal continues investigating.
The fire was reported by the Medic 2110 crew when on a patient assist. "We tried to extinguish it, but it had already spread to the second and third floor of the building," Parrish said.
Parrish also said that the building sustained heavy damage from fire, heat and water including a collapsed roof, and he "wouldn't be surprised if it were a total loss."
The building dates back to the 1800s and there were several void spaces, as well as additions and remodels from recent years. "It was a really nice historical building," Parrish said.
Owners Dan and Betty Drabik were also on scene as the building burned. Firefighters assisted Dan Drabik is retrieving some important paperwork from his office, which was near a fire wall.
Also on scene were Dover, Uhrichsville, and Sugarcreek Fire Departments, as well as York Township medic and Salvation Army 1.
No injuries were reported in the blaze, which was contained around 7:30 a.m. Firefighters also contained several hot spots throughout the day, during the fire marshal's investigation.
As this is the third fire in New Philadelphia this year, Parrish offers some helpful advice to other restaurant owners.
"Keep up with maintenance, including wiring and things like that. Also, I wouldn't hesitate to put an alarm system in. They are relatively inexpensive and in the long run, it really gives us the chance to get out there before the fire intensifies."