Firefighters responded early Tuesday to a blaze at Elephants Delicatessen in Portland.
According to Portland Fire & Rescue, crews were called to the restaurant’s location on Northwest 22nd Avenue around 1 a.m. and have spent several hours working to contain the fire.
Officials said the blaze has been difficult to control, forcing crews to rotate firefighters in and out of the building. At times, responders were pulled off the roof and out of the structure because of safety concerns.
Martin McClanan, CEO of the deli, said the fire is heartbreaking for the longtime business and the community that has supported it for years.
He said his immediate concern is for the employees and customers who have built memories at the restaurant over generations, adding that the company hopes to rebuild if possible.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire or the extent of the damage. Fire crews remained at the scene as the response continued.
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