The cause of the fire at the Uneke Lounge premises is under investigation. Photo: Jarryd Rowley.
A popular Wagga Wagga cafe has been closed following an overnight fire that caused smoke and water damage to the building.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) said firefighters were called to Uneke Lounge, a two-level building located at the corner of Fitzmaurice and Kincaid streets, at around 11 pm on Monday 20 January, following reports of a fire.
“When the crews arrived, they found active fire on level two of the premises,” FRNSW Acting Superintendent Mathew Sigmund told Region.
“At this stage, we believe the fire started in some shrub or bush outside the premises on Kincaid Street before travelling inside the building through to level two.”
It took 20 firefighters about an hour to bring the fire under control and extinguish it.
Acting Supt Sigmund said the firefighters searched the building but found no one inside and said the cause of the fire was under investigation.
Uneke Lounge posted on its social media: “Due to unforeseen circumstances, Uneke will be closed today, Tuesday, 21 January.”
Cafe owners Chris and Bea Gestier said the firefighters did a remarkable job containing the fire.
“The only damage down here is the water damage from upstairs,” Mr Grestier said.
Firefighters smashed the glass of an entryway door to enter the premises. Photo: Jarryd Rowley.
The Uneke Lounge owners said they were relieved the fire had not damaged the vintage motorbikes in the cafe.
Mr Grestier said they were aiming to reopen the cafe later this week.
As of writing, Riverina Police said it was treating the fire as suspicious.
Anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Wagga Wagga Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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