A fire has destroyed Mike’s Place, a popular restaurant and bar on Queen Street in Chatham, with damage estimated at approximately $1 million.
Chatham-Kent Fire & Emergency Services responded to a reported structure fire at approximately 2:03 a.m. Monday at the restaurant, located at 564 Queen St. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames visible from the building and immediately began fire suppression operations. Crews brought the fire under control and remained on scene conducting overhaul and extinguishing hotspots.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service says emergency services were called to the business following reports of smoke, flames and breaking glass, and crews arrived within minutes to find heavy flames coming from the building. Police say Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue worked to contain and extinguish the fire, preventing it from spreading to neighbouring businesses and properties.
There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters as a result of the fire. Damage to the restaurant is believed to be significant, and the cause remains under investigation, pending further examination by fire and police investigators. Chatham-Kent Police say they are assisting the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office and Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services with the investigation.
“Due to a devastating fire, Mike’s Place will be closed until we rebuild,” the restaurant posted on social media. “No injuries. Fireman and police officers responded extremely quick.”
Chatham-Kent Fire & Emergency Services thanked the Chatham-Kent Police Service, Chatham-Kent EMS, Entegrus, Enbridge and Public Works for their assistance at the scene.
Anyone with information or surveillance footage from the area during the early morning hours is asked to contact D/Cst. Rachele Marineau of the Chatham-Kent Police Service Major Crime Team at 519-436-6600, ext. 80668, or by email at rachelem@chatham-kent.ca.
