Multiple fire departments responded to what officals are deeming a suspicious fire at a vacant restaurant off U.S. Highway 70 in Morganton on Thursday morning.
“Going by the history , there have been several fires at this address, not necessarily in this building, but (at) this address,” said Burke County Fire Marshal Mike Willis. “There have been other fires here in the past.”
Around 6:15 a.m., fire engines arrived to 1578 U.S. Highway 70 E near Kathy Road to flames showing on the outside of the building. Six more departments were called to the scene to extinguish the flames, Willis said.
The fire originated in the right side of the building, causing significant damage. The fire still is under investigation, he said.