The owners of Burger Barn are speaking out one week after their beloved restaurant was destroyed in a fire, calling the act a “cowardly” crime.
In a statement posted on social media on Monday, the owners said they believe the fire was intentionally set.
“It was a heinous act of arson,” their statement read in part.
The restaurant, built over 14 years ago, employs 60 staff members and was a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
“The Burger Barn was our passion project and its wild popularity was the result of an ongoing effort to continuously set our own bar higher...this incredible group of people not only relied on the restaurant and its patrons for their livelihood, but they also called it their home and each other family,” the owners said.
The owners expressed gratitude to the Six Nations and Haldimand County Fire Departments for their swift response and thanked the community for the outpouring of support.
Fire details
The fire happened around 3:35 a.m. Monday, leaving a portion of the building blackened and charred.
According to an update by the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office, the fire started on the main floor.
The cause has not been determined yet.
Officials have not said if the fire is considered suspicious or not.
Second investigation
Meantime, the restaurant is also the site of a second investigation.
Six Nations Police confirmed shots were fired into the exterior of the building, causing minor damage. The shooting happened 48 hours earlier, at 3:30 a.m. Saturday.
Police are trying to determine if the two events are connected.
“We plead with anyone who may have information to contact the Six Nations Police Department,” the owners urged.
As investigations continue, they are urging other local businesses to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
CTV News has reached out to Six Nations Police for an update on the investigation.
