Fire at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in Lakeland causes damage
An early morning fire at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen off U.S. 98 has caused the fast-food eatery to at least temporarily close.
The Lakeland Fire Department received a call about 5 a.m. Thursday from a driver passing 2550 U.S. 98 reporting what appeared to be a fire in the parking lot of the restaurant, according to LFD spokesperson Stephanie Lewis. The flames were originally thought to be coming from a car or some structure outside the restaurant.
Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters discovered the fire had spread to the building and called for additional fire engines and units to respond, Lewis said. Firefighters forced their way into the building to extinguish flames that had spread into the restaurant's walls and attic space, according to a news release.
The restaurant was not operating at the time of the fire. Seven Lakeland Fire Department units responded to the blaze with no injuries reported.
Lakeland fire marshals have started their investigation into the cause of the fire, which at this time is unknown, Lewis said.
The Ledger has attempted to reach out to Popeyes' Lakeland location and corporate offices, without immediate response.
Sara-Megan Walsh can be reached at swalsh@theledger.com or 863-802-7545.
This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in Lakeland ravaged by fire Thursday morning
