Major Fire Devastates Maurice’s Piggie Park in West Columbia

Major Fire at Maurice’s Piggie Park in West Columbia

West Columbia is buzzing with news today following a large fire that broke out overnight at the beloved Maurice’s Piggie Park barbecue complex. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Saturday at the restaurant chain’s distribution center, located on the 1600 block of Charleston Highway, not far from Exit 113 on I-26 and the Columbia Metropolitan Airport.

Fire First Reported

The City of Cayce Fire Department reported that the fire was classified as a 3-alarm fire, which caught firefighters’ attention shortly after 9 p.m. Firefighters from various departments, including the West Columbia, Cayce, Lexington County, Columbia, and Irmo fire crews, answered the call. Flames were visible shooting through the roof of the building, illuminating the night sky, as more than 50 firefighters battled voracious flames.

Extent of Damage

Despite the heroic efforts, the devastation was significant. According to West Columbia Fire Chief Marquis Solomon, the fire primarily affected the distribution center, administration, and food preparation areas but thankfully did not reach the restaurant itself. However, the Piggie Park family expressed their heartbreak over the loss of the BBQ pits, food processing facilities, and offices, stating, “…the BBQ pits, food preparation, and processing plant facilities, and our offices are completely gone.”

A Community in Shock

On a heartfelt note shared via Facebook, the Piggie Park family lamented the destruction of nearly 69 years of hard work and memories, saying, “BBQ restaurants are uniquely susceptible to fire loss… and it is heartbreaking to see this.” Many in the community echoed these sentiments online, with one follower describing the fire as “a blazing inferno.” Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Ongoing Efforts

Fire crews worked tirelessly for about two hours to bring the fire under control, with the full extinguishing process taking around four hours. As of Sunday morning, crews remained at the scene managing hot spots and commencing an investigation into the cause of the blaze.

Important local agencies, including the ATF and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, are now involved in the investigation, and Chief Solomon confirmed that foul play has not been ruled out.

Implications for Maurice’s Piggie Park

The fate of Maurice’s Piggie Park is in limbo right now. With the distribution center heavily damaged and potentially a total loss, it raises concerns for the other eight locations across the Columbia and Lexington areas that depend on it for supplies. The Charleston Highway restaurant is closed indefinitely, while the other locations, as of now, plan to continue operating until food supplies run out.

“We plan for all our restaurants to be closed Monday until further notice,” the Piggie Park family announced, promising to take it “day by day” in hopes of reopening soon. Yet they reassured loyal customers: “…our family will not give up and will work endlessly to do what we need to do to continue the BBQ legacy.”

Looking Ahead

This tragic fire comes just days after another barbecue institution in the Carolinas suffered a similar fate, highlighting the vulnerability of these cherished establishments.

Maurice’s has been a landmark since 1953, famous for its iconic 75-foot BBQ sign and treasured by both locals and visitors alike.

For now, the West Columbia community is rallying around Maurice’s, hoping for their swift recovery and return. Updates on the situation will follow as investigations proceed and officials work towards a solution. This is not just about barbecue; it’s about community, and the love for good food that brings everyone together.

As this story develops, locals are encouraged to check back for updates and continue supporting the remaining open locations.