After a fire over the weekend, owners of La Hacienda Mexican restaurant in Commerce said they plan to “come back stronger and better than ever” in a Facebook post Sunday evening.
The restaurant sustained fire damage after a blaze on Saturday night damaged the roof and ceiling in the kitchen area of the establishment.
Banks County Fire Chief Steve Nichols confirmed fire crews responded to the report of a structure fire at 173 Steven B. Tanger Blvd over the weekend, finding flames visible from the roof. Firefighters then launched an aggressive interior attack and contained the blaze to the attic and roof areas.
Nichols said Banks County officials determined the fire started in the roof area, with an electrical issue suspected but not yet confirmed as the cause. Despite previous statements that nobody was at La Hacienda during the fire, Nichols said an employee was there, though they were unaware of the situation until emergency responders arrived.
A nearby hotel guest alerted authorities to the fire, which caused moderate damage to the structure. There were no reported injuries during the blaze.
Employees of La Hacienda, established in 1988, were at the business Sunday afternoon to salvage foods and supplies that survived the fire.
“Thanks to God, the fire never reached the kitchen area, and our restaurant is still standing strong,” La Hacienda posted to Facebook Sunday. “However, there was a fire in the roof area, and part of the kitchen ceiling has collapsed. For now, we are unable to operate until repairs are made. We truly appreciate all of you who have kept us in your prayers and positive thoughts.”
One of the owners, Robert Fuentes, has not yet determined a specific date when the restaurant could reopen to the public.
