Fire Destroys Beloved Pittsburgh-Area Business

PITTSBURGH, PA — "So sad my family’s business of over 45 years (was) gone in a minute."

Melissa Costanza, whose family owns the famed Cesina's Sausage Company in Aliquippa, Beaver County, voiced those sentiments on social media Monday after a fire roared through the renowned grocery store.

No injuries from the blaze were reported.

No information was immediately available on the cause of the fire.

According to the store's website, in 1968 the Costanza family purchased a small deli named Chapel Superette that sold fresh dairy, meats and other assorted foods - including homemade sausage whose recipe came from Cesina Costanza. She brought the recipe with her when she immigrated to the United States from Italy.

On Monday, after the stubborn fire was extinguished, the store posted this message on Facebook:

"We are deeply moved and sincerely grateful to the fire departments through the county for their courageous and swift response to the fire at our business today. Braving the freezing temperatures, these dedicated firemen and firewomen selfless put their lives on the line to control the situation. We are all incredibly thankful that no one was harmed.

"Additionally, the overwhelming support, love, prayers and well wishes from the community have been profoundly humbling. In challenging times such as these, we are reminded of the incredible strength and kindness that surrounds us.

"Thank you for standing by us."