Butler Township restaurant owner’s daughter explains what’s next after devastating fire

BUTLER TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A popular Butler Township family-owned restaurant was destroyed in a fire over the weekend.

W. Rick’s Taproom and Grill went up in flames early Sunday morning and the roof partially collapsed.

Neighbors said this is a huge loss for the community.

“Myself and the neighborhood everybody in general are sad about this because this particular establishment has been around for years,” said Cindy Whitecotten.

The owner’s daughter Tricia Christy said her family has owned the business for nearly 26 years.

Channel 11 spoke with an employee who’s worked here for more than a decade.

“I mean it’s devastating; it’s sad,” said employee Amy Spangler. “We are sort of all in limbo, properly insured. No foul play so we are hopeful the insurance company is going to take care of us.”

The police chief said no one was hurt and right now they are investigating the cause but believe the fire started in the kitchen and it does not appear to be suspicious.

Everyone says this is a close-knit community and many people depend on this neighborhood restaurant.

“It’s a major little hub on the community and I don’t know if it will be able to recover,” said Whitecotten.

“We are hoping for a rebuild. Hoping everyone pulls together and get us back on our feet sooner rather than later, said Spangler.

The owner’s daughter said they do plan to rebuild and reopen at some point. Right now they are in shock and are leaning on each other to get through this tough time.

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