Overnight fire destroys Shelter Restaurant in Tofino, B.C.

A popular restaurant on the Island was destroyed by an overnight fire Thursday morning in Tofino, B.C.

Shelter Restaurant, a community landmark in Tofino, B.C., has been forced to shut down after an overnight fire destroyed the building Thursday morning.

Tofino RCMP were called to the area around 1 a.m. after several alarms went off at the restaurant.

Colin Douglas, sergeant and detachment commander with the Tofino RCMP, said there are no reported injuries or lives lost.

The Tofino Volunteer Fire Department arrived on the scene shortly afterwardsand began efforts tocontain the blazebut Douglas said the flames had engulfed the building.

While the cause of the fire is under investigation, police believe it originated in the kitchen area of the restaurant.

Tofino Mayor Dan Law says the news of the fire hasshocked and saddened the community.

"The whole community is going to be reeling from this for a bit.

"It was homey. It was full of wood and old growth and art, and you knew everybody, knew somebody who worked there if you didn't work there yourself. It was a very well-used and well-loved institution."

Law added that the local co-op has started a food drive and is accepting donations to help the employees and owners who are now out of business, so close to Christmas.

"Over the years, [Shelter] certainly put a lot of effort and time and money and energy into the community. Whether it was fundraising or any need in the community, they were always right there.So, the community is primed and ready to see how they can step up and help in any way."

The restaurant confirmed the incident on its Instagram page and shared a message thanking thecommunity for its support.

"Shelter is a landmark and it means a lot to the community. It's known across the island, across the province and abroad," Douglas said.

Police have engaged with an arson investigator, but there is no suspicion at this time.

The damage is limited to the restaurant, located at 601 Campbell St.