Sonny’s BBQ fire destroys beloved Bartow restaurant

Fire significantly damages Sonny's BBQ in Bartow

A fire broke out at Sonny’s BBQ in Bartow early Wednesday morning and destroyed the restaurant. FOX 13's Carla Bayron reports.

BARTOW, Fla. - A fire broke out at Sonny’s BBQ in Bartow early Wednesday morning and destroyed the restaurant. 

What we know:

According to Bartow Fire Deputy Chief Byron Moore, a Sonny’s BBQ employee called 911 around 6:15 a.m. and reported a fire showing through the roof of the restaurant located at 595 Broadway Ave North in Bartow.

Upon arrival, firefighters said they also saw the flames coming from the roof area and began trying to put them out from inside the building.

However, as conditions worsened, all personnel had to be evacuated because a roof collapse appeared imminent.

According to the Bartow Fire Department, the restaurant sustained heavy damage from fire, smoke and water; therefore, it was condemned as a total loss.

No injuries were reported.

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During interviews with the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the employee working at the time said they started their day around 5 a.m. by starting the cooking equipment and smoker as usual.

What they're saying:

Shift Manager Crystal Mosley said she's worked at Sonny’s BBQ since 2003 and the company for 25 years. She has family who works here too, so it was very near and dear.

"When I got here, the building was fully engulfed and there was no saving it. She was a complete loss," Mosley explained. 

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Mosley said the pit master was the only employee inside loading the smoker when he noticed water leaking from the roof. When he stepped outside, the building suddenly caught fire.

Mosley said the restaurant is known for its school events and sports functions.

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Some employees will be able to transition to another location in Winter Haven.

"We support one another. We're going to stand tall, and we're going to rebuild," Mosley said. "It's going to be better than ever." 

Courtesy: City of Bartow.

"Earlier today, a fire occurred at our Sonny’s BBQ location in Bartow," stated Scott Frantz, President at ACG BBQ LLC. "We are grateful to share that no team members or guests were injured. We are thankful for the swift response from Bartow Fire Rescue and first responders who worked quickly to address the situation. At this time, the cause of the fire is still under investigation, and the restaurant sustained significant damage and will remain closed until further notice. Our focus right now is on supporting our team members. We will share additional updates as they become available."

""I continue to applaud the efforts of our Bartow Fire Department men and women who worked all day to put out the unfortunate fire at Sonny’s BBQ restaurant. Unfortunately, the structure could not be saved. However, because the incident occurred early in the morning, it is my understanding that no employees or customers were injured. Our community is sad today and we really feel for the workers who may be out of employment for a time. Our city team stands ready to help the Sonny’s employees who may need assistance connecting with social agencies in the community during this time of need," Bartow City Manager Mike Herr said. "Additionally, when the owners are ready to rebuild and reopen, our city team will provide expedited reviews of plans and permits. In Bartow we come together to help each other."

What we don't know:

Investigators believe that the fire likely started in the exhaust duct area of the smoker, which is located within the attic space, but the cause of the fire is still unknown.