(This story has been updated to add new information)
A Southwest Florida landmark restaurant, Cape Coral’s The Boathouse Restaurant & Tiki Bar , was destroyed by a fire Thursday night (Oct. 17). Here’s what to know:
Popular Cape Coral restaurant, The Boathouse, engulfed in flames
According to a post made by the Cape Coral Fire Department on its Facebook page this morning (Oct. 18):
- Everyone was able to get out safely.
- The fire occurred just after closing and was called in by employees. The restaurant’s listed closing time for Thursday is 10 p.m.
- There was a heavy fuel load, including the thatched roof, fully restocked alcohol for the bar, and the windy conditions which caused challenges for the firefighters who used handlines, elevated master stream, and the fire boat to attack the fire from the river side of the restaurant.
- The fire has been extinguished, but crews will be onsite most of the day to monitor the scene.
More: Cape Coral’s Boathouse Restaurant destroyed by fire. What they are saying on social media