Helen's Restaurant fire unsolved, but not suspicious
The cause of the fire that destroyed Helen’s Restaurant in Machias will remain unsolved, but it does not appear to be suspicious, a state official told the Bangor Daily News.
Sgt. Ken Grimes of the State Fire Marshal’s office told the newspaper that investigators will not be able to make a determination because the fire damage was so extensive. He said the fire apparently started from under the floor. No one was in the building at the time.
The owners of Helen's Restaurant have vowed to rebuild the popular Machias establishment known for its blueberry pie after it burned down last Friday. Owners David and Julie Barker plan to start construction on a new building later this summer, at an estimated cost of $1.5 million. The restaurant would reopen in spring 2015.
An online fundraising campaign established for the restaurant's employees has already surpassed its $20,000 goal by more than $3,000. The restaurant has 50 employees during its peak summer season, the owners said.
The Maine Department of Labor said last week that its rapid response team has contacted the restaurant's owners to help employees review benefits they may be entitled to receive.
Helen's, which opened in 1950 and relocated to 111 Main St. in 1983, has been recognized by Life magazine, Rachael Ray's magazine and Parade magazine for its blueberry pie.
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