Firefighters respond to electrical fire at Papa John’s
Columbus Firefighters responded to numerous calls about a possible structure fire at Papa Johns Pizza in Eastbrook Plaza. Capt. Mike Wilson, department spokesman, says firefighters were dispatched to the restaurant at about 11:38 a.m. Wednesday on reports of black smoke coming from the roof of the building. Engine Co. 4 was the first unit to arrive on the scene and reported smoke showing from the roof. As the engine company prepared to investigate, they were met by Papa Johns employees who reported that everyone was out of the business. Papa Johns employees told firefights that the lights inside the business has just began to flicker when a passerby came into the store to warn of a possible fire on the roof. Employees stated that prior to learning of the possible fire, they did detect an odor of smoke and could hear a unidentified popping sound. No smoke was visible inside the store.
As additional stations arrived at the scene, electrical arcing was witnessed from the area of the roof. Additional booming was heard by the firefighters below. Within a short time, firefighters witnessed the electrical service lines separate from a transformer in the alley behind the business. Engine Co. #2 and Truck Co. #1 set up their ladder apparatus to gain access to the strip malls roof. There, they found a small section of the rubber membrane roof covering on fire. Roof Truck Co. # 1 extinguished the flames.
With all fire threats addressed, firefighters turned the scene over to Duke Energy and Papa Johns. While fire investigators are unsure of the exact cause, an undetermined electrical event contributed to the incident.
No one was hurt.
The restaurant is open.