The Boathouse Tiki Bar and Grill erupts into flames in Cape Coral

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The Cape Coral Fire Department responded to a fire at The Boathouse Tiki Bar and Grill.

The fire was reported to firefighters at around 10 p.m. on Thursday at 5819 Driftwood Parkway.

In a video sent by WINK News viewer Marissa Verzi, the bright orange glow of the flames can be seen as smoke billows into the night sky.

WINK News spoke with battalion chief Ian Milliken about the cause of the fire and whether any injuries had been reported.

According to Milliken, three employees were performing their closing duties when the fire erupted from the kitchen.

The employees then attempted to extinguish the blaze; however, the wind made the flames too overwhelming.

Alcohol in the kitchen further exacerbated the scene.

When firefighters arrived on the scene, they reported having issues locating water to extinguish the scene, as only one fire hydrant was nearby.

First responders then resorted to using river water to aid in their efforts, at one point in time requiring a boat to transport the water.

Milliken confirmed that the flames were 100% contained.

It took first responders nearly four hours to extinguish the fire.

Crews assessed the damages, discovering that the decking of the backside floor had completely collapsed, along with hazardous conditions on the restaurant’s rooftop.

No injuries have been reported.

The fire is currently under investigation.

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