A weekend fire destroyed a popular Sarasota restaurant that’s been open for nearly three decades.
Pacific Rim is located on Hillview Street, just off Tamiami Trail, in Sarasota.
The owners of Pacific Rim were awakened Saturday morning with alarming news: 28 years of a family-owned business had gone up in smoke.
The owner, S, said he and his wife woke up to his phone ringing at 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning.
“She said there’s a fire in your restaurant, so I jumped out of bed and rushed down here as quickly as possible,” S said. “There were nine firetrucks and a bunch of ambulances all around this area.”
By the time they got there, there was little anyone could do.
“I was so devastated,” S said. “I don’t even know what to think. I was scared; my mind was blank. I asked myself, what should I do? But I couldn’t do anything. I couldn’t go anywhere.”
S said the fire started in the back room.
“The whole place is burned out,” S added. “Even the fan inside the living room is melted. My kitchen had white tile decor, but now it’s all black tile.”
For nearly three decades, Pacific Rim wasn’t just a place to eat.
“It’s home to all my loyal customers,” S said.
K owns a wellness center next door.
The fire department had to cut into his back door, and he suffered some water damage.
“We’re just trying to get cleaned up,” said K, owner of Trusted Wellness. “Some of our products melted, so we’re just trying to get all that recouped.”
Although his business didn’t burn down, he said this tragedy affects all the neighbors in this building.
“We’re not going to see as much business as people are not going to be coming to the neighboring businesses,” said K. “But we hope for the best. We only wish the best of luck to Pacific Rim.”
S said they have a lot of work to do, but he says he is keeping his spirits up, all thanks to his supporters.
“What a great community we have here in Sarasota,” S said. “Everyone’s pitching in to help out little by little.”
The State Fire Marshal is still investigating the cause of the fire.
S and his wife said they are dedicated to rebuilding and reopening as soon as possible.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable After a Fire
When a fire accident is caused by negligence, victims deserve justice. Ovadia Law Group is dedicated to holding responsible parties accountable and helping you recover from your injuries. Our personal injury attorneys are skilled in fire-related cases and understand how to build strong claims. We work with investigators and experts to uncover the cause of the fire and prove liability. Whether the fire occurred due to faulty equipment, poor maintenance, or other factors, we’re here to fight for your rights. Our firm offers compassionate support and aggressive representation to ensure you receive fair compensation. Call 1-800-674-9396 for a free consultation and speak with a personal injury lawyer who understands fire accident law. Ovadia Law Group is committed to helping victims find justice and rebuild their lives.
Source: Wfla
