Firefighters fought a blaze at a McDonald’s restaurant on Wednesday afternoon in the 900 block of Henderson Highway.
The fire started around 2:45 p.m. and healthcare workers from a nearby clinic were some of the first to notice the flames.
"There were two ladies from the clinic that were there and actually told the employees that the building was on fire. So they had everyone evacuate out," said Stefanie Sobieski, who works at the clinic.
For hours, police blocked Henderson Highway in both directions between Mcleod and Leighton Avenues.
Henderson was re-opened before 6:00 p.m.
The closure, which happened during the rush hour commute, caused heavy traffic delays.
Witnesses said flames were shooting high in the air.
“It got bigger...and then I (saw) the flames come out the side by the play area…I saw one of the girls run in, and then everybody running out and then heard the sirens,” said Trudy Jenkinson, who works across the street.
Platoon Chief, Doug Martin credited the restaurant's manager with carrying out the fire plan and ensuring everyone got out safely.
Flames mainly spread out of the top play area of the restaurant, which appeared to be destroyed in the blaze.
Winds were gusting close to 90 km/h Wednesday. Martin said the high winds created a perfect storm to stoke the fire.
"The high winds of course, fan the flames. and the big thing is the oxygen within the air. and it just intensifies the fire," said Martin.
Around 5 p.m., the crews were dousing the last of the flames.
The cause of the fire is unknown.
No one was injured.
A damage estimate has not yet been set.
Martin said the building will not be in use for some time.
