A three-alarm fire that tore through a popular Upper Marlboro restaurant Wednesday morning is being called arson by fire investigators.
Someone called 911 at about 3:30 a.m. to report smoke coming from the roof of Tucker's Restaurant on Marlboro Pike. Over 100 firefighters were called to the scene to fight the massive fire.
After about 30 minutes of battling the fire, firefighters were evacuated from the building. A large portion of the roof did eventually cave in.
Fire investigators classified the cause of the fire as “incendiary” and are seeking assistance for information. The damage is estimated to be $2 million.
3:30 am A well known and popular restaurant, Tucker, at 9205 Marlboro Pike in Upper Marlboro is on fire. 3-Alarms worth of units on scene
— Mark Brady (@PGFDPIO) June 17, 2015The fire was extinguished just after 5 a.m. Wednesday. One firefighter sustained a minor burn while battling the blaze.
Tucker's has been a staple in the community since 1969. The 1-story strip mall includes a liquor store, lounge and restaurant.
Recon Op in progress - pic of roof collapse. pic.twitter.com/locoNWfuA6
— Marc Bashoor (@PGFD_Chief) June 17, 2015