December 24, 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2011-96) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org TWO ALARM FIRE AT EL GIRO MEXICAN RESTAURANT Mobile firefighters responded to the report of a fire at El Giro Mexican Restaurant, located at 2518 Government Boulevard, early Saturday morning, December 24. A passerby called to report the fire at approximately 3:17 a.m. When firefighters arrived they reported heavy smoke and fire coming through the roof of the large, single story with stucco siding building. Because of the size of the building a 2nd Alarm assignment was called for to bring additional firefighters and equipment to the scene to help extinguish the blaze. In all there were approximately thirty-eight firefighters on scene helping to contain the fire. The fire appears to have originated in the kitchen area and spread throughout the restaurant causing extensive damage to the interior of the structure and its contents, including burning through the roof just above the kitchen area. Damage is estimated at approximately $700 thousand. The restaurant was closed at the time of the fire and first indications are that it appears to have been accidental but remains under investigation at this time. There were no reported injuries. More information will follow as it becomes available. Engines 8, 9, 12, 15, 16, 23; trucks 17, 24; rescues 23, 24 and District Chiefs John Young and Elbert Cross responded to the fire. The Bureau of Fire Prevention is conducting the investigation. ###