Firefighter injured during early morning fire

Reported this morning before 5:00 a.m., St Johns County Fire Rescue responded to popular St Augustine restaurant, Ned’s Southside Kitchen, where the owner, Ned Pollock, told reporters that he still is not certain what caused the blaze which may have started in a dry storage area.

The restaurant was closed at the time of the blaze and unoccupied. There were no civilian injuries reported during the incident; but, one firefighter was treated for minor injuries sustained during firefighting operations.

“Upon arrival crews reported heavy smoke showing from the eaves and the exhaust fan of the building,” Lt. Jeremy Robshaw reported to Historic City News this morning. “Firefighters established a water supply, made entry into the structure and began interior firefighting operations. The fire was brought under control in approximately 15 minutes; limiting fire damage to the building.”

Apparatus responding included: three Engines, two Ladder trucks, one Heavy Rescue, one Tanker, one Rescue and two Battalion Chiefs. The City of St. Augustine Fire Department also responded to assist at the scene of the commercial structure fire in the 2400 block of US-1 South.

In televised coverage, Pollock said that the restaurant is closed until such time as he can assess the damage and what will be required to re-open. He stated that he is concerned about where his crew of employees will find work. Ned has operated the restaurant for the past 4-years, but is well known for his operation of the Malaga Street Depot, and partnership in Gypsy Cab Company.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal and St Johns County Fire Rescue are jointly investigating the cause and location where the fire started. The report should follow in the coming weeks.