The Columbus Division of Fire is investigating a fire at a vacant Red Lobster restaurant on the northeast side of Columbus. Following reports of the blaze, fire crews were dispatched to the scene at around 2 a.m. on East Dublin-Granville Road in the Forest Park East neighborhood.
Officials reported that one person was inside the building at the time of the fire but managed to escape unharmed. Despite the early hour, smoke billowing from the rooftop, windows, and side doors painted a grim picture for onlookers and first responders. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. However, according to NBC4i, officials treat it as "suspicious."
The emergency call was logged at 1:36 a.m., and firefighters quickly rushed to the 1690 block of East Dublin Granville Road, where the scene unfolded. While the fire's origins remain unclear, no civilians or firefighters sustained injuries during the incident, a fortunate outcome amidst the potential dangers, as confirmed by officials in ABC6.
Detailed inspections of the aftermath were underway by morning, with fire crews seen examining the charred building with flashlights, searching for clues that might unveil the events leading up to the fire. While the exact number of individuals present in the building at the time of the fire has not been confirmed, it was reported that people were inside when the flames erupted. Personnel at the scene declined to speak to the media, while a fire department spokesman conveyed the lack of detailed information available until briefed, according to The Columbus Dispatch. With the investigation ongoing, the community awaits to see what light can be shed on this suspicious incident.
