$2M Damage To Popular Restaurant Caused By Fire That Reignited

ELKTON, MD — A popular restaurant and bar in Elkton has been destroyed by a fire that caused an estimated $2 million in damage.

Shortly after midnight Sept. 19, an employee of Rookies Hilltop Bar & Restaurant on Hilltop Road discovered smoke from the two-story restaurant's basement.

Thirty-five firefighters from the Singerly Volunteer Fire Company and surrounding departments responded and brought the one-alarm fire under control within 30 minutes. Deputy state fire marshals determined the fire originated in the basement and was accidental, caused by an electrical fault in a basement panel, according to the state fire marshal's office. Firefighters and investigators cleared the scene around 3 a.m.

Nearly four hours later, just before 7 a.m., firefighters were called back to the popular bar and restaurant after flames reignited. Crews encountered heavy fire throughout the building, which rapidly escalating to a four-alarm blaze, according to the state fire marshal's office.

Multiple departments, including those from Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland, helped firefighters for several hours to control the fire. No injuries were reported.

“Even with extensive overhaul efforts, a rekindle can occur when hidden embers remain buried within walls, roofing or debris. These hot spots can smolder for hours before flaring back up. Firefighters use water, foam and thermal imaging cameras to reduce this risk,” said Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Oliver Alkire, spokesman for the Office of the State Fire Marshal. “While uncommon, it does occasionally happen despite the thorough work of firefighters.”

Investigators reported that the restaurant was not equipped with smoke alarms, sprinklers or a fire alarm system.