Fire breaks out in downtown Red Deer
Red Deer emergency crews responded to a fire in the downtown area of the city Sunday morning.
The blaze broke out around 5:30 a.m. next to La Casa Pergola at 4909-48 St., in the Empire Building.
A number of crews responded to the fire that caused extensive damage to several ground floor units and offices in the building.
“On arrival, crews noticed visible flames… there was extensive damage throughout the building. There are several businesses on the ground floor and several offices on the second floor. There’s certainly a lot of damage,” said Red Deer Emergency Services Deputy Fire Chief Chris Kearns.
Kearns added most of the fire was put out by 7:49 a.m. and was completely contained by 9:54 a.m.
He also noted that there was nobody in the commercial building at the time of the fire.
In a detailed post on Facebook, La Casa Pergola owner Kurt Montgomery said although there was no fire damage to the restaurant, there was extensive smoke and water damage.
“Although it appears that the fire started behind the building and on the roof, the restaurant was not damaged by the fire, however, there is major water/smoke damage,” read the post.
“It appears that the building will be a total loss at this point. Our hearts go out to Vesta Law who occupy most of the upstairs and have suffered a total loss and to the other tenants in the building.”
Montgomery added he isn’t sure what the future holds for the restaurant.
“We are devastated to think that there is a possibility that we would not be a part of your lives anymore or that our very loyal customers will not be filling the restaurant with their smiles, laughter and sharing their special events with us,” he said.
The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
City officials said that 48 Street between 49 Avenue and 50 Avenue is closed while the fire is being investigated.