KILLEEN, Texas — Central Texans are missing one of their favorite dining spots after a fire on Monday forced it to shut down.
Hallmark Restaurant in Killeen had a fire during business hours. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Killeen Fire Chief James Kubinski said it happened around 2:30 in the afternoon that day.
He explained to 6 News that the fire was able to progress before it was noticed by witnesses and bystanders due to where it started.
"The origin was in a void space at the base of the building that went directly to the attic, so it was hidden in that void space then went straight to the attic," Kubinski explained. "Any of those ceiling structures would have concealed any smoke or fire until it fully engulfed that attic and then moved into the ceiling space or the area that occupants or employees would be located."
Kubinski said the fire marshal was able to determine the cause of the blaze was accidental due to improper shielding of heat producing appliances that were working on HVAC units. The Killeen fire chief described the damage of the restaurant as 'very significant' especially to the roof and some of the walls.
"There was no fire alarm system or sprinkler system in place in this building," Kubinski said. "Regardless of whatever the codes were at the time the building was built, they were not required."
Kubinski stressed these tools give buildings, as well as occupants, the best chance of surviving.
Now, regulars of the Hallmark Restaurant are left missing their gathering place, the culture and service the staff created and also remain hopeful that the business still has a future.
"I hope they bring it back in its glory because it is a great restaurant," said Robert Edmunds, a frequent customer of Hallmark Restaurant. "The atmosphere is just phenomenal. If it requires a remodeling, I hope they do that. The staff, they're our friends, and we hate seeing them without being able to work."
"It's not like the other restaurants in Killeen, so I like coming to the Hallmark," said Virginia Molina, another frequent customer. "We'll miss the restaurant because it's close by. I hope that it opens up soon and no more fires."
6 News is working to learn from the owner how long it the restaurant will be closed or if there are plans to reopen at all.
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