Fire at Mediterranean Deli in Chapel Hill ruled as accidental, caused $3 million in damages

A July 22 fire at the Mediterranean Deli, Bakery, and Catering on Franklin Street was been ruled accidental, according to Chapel Hill firefighters.

The fire was reported at approximately 2:30 p.m. at the deli in the 400 block of Franklin Street.

Firefighters arrived on the scene to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the building. They contained the fire, but not before it caused significant damage to the restaurant.

"This is my house, my life, not only for me but for everybody," said Mediterranean Deli employee. "My employers, this is my family working here. every family work here together. I'm sorry for everybody."

A report released Thursday by the Chapel Hill Fire Department shows there was at least $3 million worth of damage to the restaurant and its contents.

A Chapel Hill firefighter was cut while working to extinguish the fire, and two other Chapel Hill firefighters were taken to the hospital for potential heat exhaustion. There were no other reports of injuries.

Alex Carrasquillo, Chapel Hill Public Information Officer, said that Mediterranean Deli is a staple in the town and that many people know it. He said that when you mention Med Deli, people know that it is a great place to go. The owner is a really nice guy and they treat the town really well. They also treat the police and firefighters really well.

"So it's a difficult to come out here and see something like this any day but especially when you know the people who are here and offering their service to the community every day," Carrasquillo said.

Sidney Watts who works nearby expressed sympathy for the restaurant workers.

"I'm sure the med deli people are even more upset 'cause that's like you know work is like a second home so that's like their home burning down almost," Watts said.

Three Chapel Hill firefighters were treated for injuries including one for a minor cut and two for heat exhaustion.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Business leaders, town representatives, and others will meet Sunday to begin developing plans to support the impacted businesses and their staff members.

Firefighters had to close off this busy part of Franklin Street between Mallette and Kenan Street.