DETROIT (WWJ) — The owners of the Checker Bar are promising to make a comeback after a fire tore through the popular spot Downtown Detroit early Tuesday morning.
A post on the bar’s Facebook page said a fire broke out in the electrical room in the basement, “due to what appears to have been a utilities explosion originating outside of the building.”
The Detroit Fire Department has not released any information about the reported explosion.
Firefighters were called to the bar on Cadillac Square, near Congress and Randolph, around 4:15 a.m. on Jan. 14. The Facebook post said the “swift response” from the Detroit Fire Department prevented further damage.
“This is an incredibly difficult moment for our team, but we want to reassure everyone that we are committed to rebuilding and coming back stronger,” the post said. “Like the phoenix rising from the ashes, we will emerge from this setback with renewed determination.”
Fox 2 reported it took fire crews about two hours to extinguish the fire and clean the scene.
The Checker Bar, an “elevated dive bar,” according to its website, has become a popular spot downtown featuring a rotating kitchen and craft cocktails, along with vintage arcade games.
The bar’s owners say they will share updates on Facebook on the progress of their recovery following the fire and they “look forward to welcoming you back as soon as possible.”