The Monterey Fire Department responded to reports of a commercial structure fire at 902 Lighthouse Ave. around 6:37 a.m. according to a press release from the City of Monterey. Fire crews arrived within five minutes to find smoke inside the fast-food restaurant, located at the corner of Lighthouse and David Avenues, a few blocks up from the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Firefighters found flames spreading rapidly through the attic. As the fire intensified, crews switched to a defensive strategy and evacuated the structure due to concerns about a potential roof collapse.
The fire was eventually contained, but the damage was extensive. The roof and several walls collapsed, and officials have deemed the building a complete loss. A Monterey Fire engine and ladder truck will remain on-site to monitor for flare-ups.