Roof collapsed at popular Jersey Shore restaurant after major fire, owner says

The fire that broke out at a popular Sea Isle City restaurant Wednesday night caused the roof to collapse, according to a statement from the restaurant owner on social media.

“It is with great regret that we must announce that Casa Taco has caught fire and the roof has collapsed,” HiYT Development posted on social media on Wednesday evening on behalf of restaurant owner Victor Loaeza.

Pictures and videos from the scene of the accident posted on social media showed flames rising from the restaurant on Wednesday.

Casa Taco staff reported a fire at the restaurant at 5:06 p.m. on Wednesday, authorities said in a press release.

A minute later, Sea Isle City emergency crews arrived at the restaurant on Park Road and found the restaurant had already been evacuated, authorities said.

Firefighters checked to see if the entire building had been evacuated, and Sea Isle City police evacuated adjacent buildings as a precaution, authorities said.

Fire departments from Avalon, Marmora, Ocean City, Ocean View and Strathmere also arrived at the scene and authorities said the fire was under control within an hour.

No injuries were reported, but Casa Taco suffered significant damage, while an attached restaurant, Casino Pizza, was also damaged by the fire. Both restaurants were the only two businesses in the commercial building at 4210 Park Road, officials said.

The fire is currently being investigated by the Sea Isle City Police Department along with Cape May County and State Fire Marshals.

“The most important thing is that everyone is safe,” Loaeza said in the post on Wednesday. “We cannot thank our firefighters and rescue workers enough for their quick response and bravery. We will keep you updated on how things develop.”

Loaeza did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday. Casino Pizza’s phone number was unavailable Thursday.