A swift response from the Hubbard, Liberty Township, and Brookfield fire departments, arriving within minutes, contained the blaze after more than two hours of intense firefighting, finally bringing it under control around 8:15 P.M. The intense heat and smoke severely damaged the kitchen, rendering it unusable. Soot and water damage affected much of the restaurant’s interior, and the roof suffered significant structural damage requiring extensive repairs. Initial estimates suggest repair costs will reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.

 

Pizza Works owner Maria Rossi expressed profound relief at the lack of injuries, stating, “While the damage is devastating, we are incredibly grateful that everyone is safe. We are fully committed to rebuilding and reopening as soon as possible.” The State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating, focusing on a possible electrical malfunction in the kitchen’s ventilation system. In the interim, Pizza Works employees have been temporarily laid off, with Ms. Rossi pledging to rehire them upon the restaurant’s reopening. A community GoFundMe page has been established to support the employees during this challenging time.