Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Flames broke out at the popular Mulligan's Brick Bar on Allen Street in Buffalo early Sunday morning.
As a result of the flames at 229 Allen Street near Elmwood, Allen from Wadsworth Street to Elmwood was closed, while crews continued to work on extinguishing the fire.
"A very sad day for Buffalo, for the Allentown community, for Western New York and really beyond," Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon said during a late morning news conference on Sunday.
The fire originated on the first floor and rapidly extended throughout the entire building. Firefighters utilized numerous pieces of equipment to battle the blaze. The fire caused extensive damage, with an updated estimated damage to the structure at approximately $1.5 million, while the loss of contents is estimated at $600,000.
When asked directly if the fire may be the result of arson, Scanlon responded by saying, "At this point, no." He added that nobody was in the building at the time of the fire.
The ATF is assisting in the investigation of the blaze.
Buffalo Fire Commissioner William Renaldo says the first-alarm for the fire came in shortly after 4 a.m. EST. He cautions the public to stay away from the scene as the investigation continues, as the building is not secure.
At least a partial demolition is anticipated for the building.
It was in June of 2024 when the neighboring Old Pink burned in a devastating fire. That structure has since been demolished.
As reported in October 2024, after two years on the market, the owners of Mulligan's Brick Bar were no longer looking to sell the business, per Buffalo Business First. Co-owner Kim Rossi reported business had recently picked up.
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