A fire just destroyed an iconic diner in Toronto
Emergency responders are currently battling a "deep seated," four-alarm blaze that started in the basement of a restaurant on Toronto's bustling Danforth Avenue.
Toronto fire officials say they responded to the site of Detroit Eatery at 389 Danforth Ave., between Chester and Arundel Avenues, around 6:45 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
Fire at Detroit Eatery this morning: thoughts go out to Chris and family! pic.twitter.com/kGzuGzDiPX
— Ben Rodgers (@Rodge156068) January 22, 2019
What was initially declared a two-alarm fire escalated after 9 a.m. as difficult weather conditions and historic construction made things tricky for firefighting operations.
The apartments above the restaurant and those in neighbouring buildings have been evacuated. No injuries have been reported.
Please keep Detroit Eatery in mind guys. It’s my second home. Some of people I’m most comfortable around work and hang out there.
— Isaac Stein (@IsaacStein2) January 22, 2019
No one was hurt ❤️ pic.twitter.com/vEgGfvpVJw
The "stubborn" four-alarm fire was finally knocked down at 10:32 a.m., according to the Toronto Fire Service, though firefighters are expected to remain on scene well into Tuesday afternoon "doing overhaul" and investigating. Officials are asking residents to please avoid the area.
If you’ve visited me in Toronto, there’s a 100% chance I took you to @DetroitEatery. It’s impossible to categorize. The people - from all walks of life in parallel universes - are what makes Detroit so special. The Danforth will rally to support Chris in a mind-blowing way. pic.twitter.com/2qvPWHxf5W
— John Sharkman (@JohnSharkman) January 22, 2019
Detroit Eatery, home to one of Toronto's best diner burgers, appears to be in rough shape on account of the fire — so much so that neighbourhood residents have already set up a GoFundMe campaign to help rebuild it.
Help restore Detroit Eatery https://t.co/LrPYRM4jIi
— Ana Di (@dimitriadou_ana) January 22, 2019
"Detroit Eatery is a staple of the neighbourhood that the locals know and love," reads the GoFundMe page, which has raised $125 in just two hours.
"Often having 3 generations of family members sitting down for brunch or getting together with good friends."
"The Detroit Eatery is not only a quality diner but a social hub and community hotspot," it continues. "Please help restore it to its former glory and allow this establishment to serving the public for years to come."
