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NewsInvestigation continues in early morning bar fire By James Pluta An early morning fire has rendered a longtime tavern in Summit closed for business — at least for a while — as investigators from both the Fire and Police departments try to determine its cause. Assistant Fire Chief Rich Gallaga said the fire at the venerable Before & After Lounge, 6307 S. Archer Road, was reported to his department just before 6:30 a.m. Feb. 2. Passing police vehicles reported smoke and fire coming from the unoccupied single-story building. “After investigating, we have not come to a conclusion or cause as to how it started, but the fire was inside toward the front of the building near the roof,” Gallaga said, estimating damages at between $60,000 and $80,000. “The damage was extensive: fire, smoke and water damage,” he added, noting the blaze was struck within an hour. “They are now closed to business and it will take an extensive amount of work to renovate the place.” There was electrical wiring in the ceiling at the roof line where the flames were doused and that is being investigated as well by an electrical inspector, said Gallaga. Rumors about the neighborhood had the fire labeled as a possible arson, and while that has not yet been ruled out, it is not suspected either, he said. The lounge was open the night before to a small crowd and closed about 10:30 p.m. Although not open for business all the time like a regular bar, its interior bar area was currently under renovation. No injuries were reported in the call, which was assisted by firefighters from nearby Burbank, Bedford Park, Bridgeview, Central Stickney and McCook. |
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