Fire destroys historic Wolf Lodge Steakhouse in Coeur d'Alene
The historic Wolf Lodge Steakhouse in Coeur d'Alene was a "total loss" following a large fire on Monday.
BILL BULEY/Press
Firefighters spray water on the Wolf Lodge blaze on Monday, while others establish a fire line on the hillside east of the restaurant.
Firefighters carry hoses outside the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse on Monday.
Firefighters take a breather from battling the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse fire on Monday.
Wolf Lodge Steakhouse employees share a hug on Monday.
COEUR d'ALENE — The historic Wolf Lodge Steakhouse in Coeur d'Alene is a "total loss" following a large fire on Monday, according to Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris.
The fire started in a kitchen exhaust hood, according to general manager Nicole Martel. The fire quickly spread to the chimney and attic before engulfing the entire building.
The steakhouse was closed at the time, but many staff were on site for a Labor Day picnic.
Shawn Martel, the assistant manager, reportedly suffered second-degree burns on his arms and head trying to put out the fire, according to relatives. Martel has been hospitalized for his injuries.
The blaze also sparked a small wildland fire behind the restaurant, according to Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Police Chief Chris Way. The Idaho Department of Lands was called in to put out the wildland fire and establish a fireline.
Several IDL and hand crews remain on the scene, and officials are asking for people to avoid the area. Assistance has also been requested from Shoshone and Spokane Counties.
The Wolf Lodge Steakhouse has been a Coeur d'Alene landmark for decades. After serving as a convenience store since 1939, the location became popular as a traditional steakhouse in the 1970s.
Firefighters spray water on the Wolf Lodge blaze on Monday, while others establish a fire line on the hillside east of the restaurant.
Firefighters carry hoses outside the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse on Monday.
Firefighters take a breather from battling the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse fire on Monday.
Wolf Lodge Steakhouse employees share a hug on Monday.