Restaurant Fire Forces Evacuation, Draws Major ConfFire Response

WALNUT CREEK, CA — Flames burned through the roof of a restaurant in downtown Walnut Creek this morning after employees heard popping sounds, smelled smoke, and evacuated the building, according to reports.

The fire broke out shortly after 8 a.m. at the Lettuce restaurant at Civic Drive and Locust Street.

ConFire crews responded 8 a.m. Wednesday and found flames on the roof. Eight engines and more than 30 firefighters were deployed to the one alarm fire, ConFire said.

Crews spent several hours bringing the blaze under control. No one was injured.

Owner Dave Bowie told KRON 4 that the damage was significant and "devastating" to the tenant, the restaurant. Bowie said the property is insured and that he would rebuild as soon as he can.

That process has already started as ConFire crews monitor the site for hot spots and investigate the cause of the blaze.

Firefighters returned to the scene at 3:15 p.m. after reports of smoke coming from the structure.