(Okoboji)– An early morning fire has pretty much gutted a popular lakes area restaurant.
Firefighters were called to Tweeter’s on Highway 71 in Okoboji around 2:30 a.m. this (Monday) morning. Several passerbys reported seeing smoke coming from the building and called 911.
Upon arriving, Arnolds Park-Okoboji Fire Chief Chris Yungbluth says they found considerable smoke coming from the eves, roof line and vents outside the kitchen. At that point, he says the Milford Fire Department was called for assistance.
Yungbluth says it appears the fire started in a stairwell to the basement…near a back table where locals played cards. He says that’s where the damage is heaviest.
Yungbluth says the building most likely will be a total loss. He says it appears to be in-tact from the outside, but the dining room sustained heavy fire and smoke damage with heavy smoke damage to the kitchen and moderate smoke and heavy water damage reported to the basement.
Firefighters remained on the scene until about 8:30 a.m. keeping an eye out for flareups.
Yunbluth says an investigation by the State Fire Marshal determined the probable cause was electrical in nature.
Yungbluth says minor injuries were reported to one firefighter who got a piece of glass stuck in his finger.
Firefighters were assisted on the scene by the Lakes Area Healthcare ambulance and the Okoboji, Arnolds Park and Spirit Lake Police Departments.
Owner Kae Hoppe tells KUOO she appreciates everyone’s support and that she plans to rebuild. She adds her catering business remains open.
