CECIL COUNTY, MD – A devastating early-morning fire leveled the popular Unwined on the Water restaurant at Triton Marina on Thursday, causing more than $1 million in damage, state officials said.
The blaze broke out shortly after 1:10 a.m. and quickly engulfed the two-story waterfront restaurant before firefighters could bring it under control.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal confirmed that investigators are reviewing video evidence and have found no signs of foul play.
Key Points
- Unwined on the Water restaurant at Triton Marina destroyed in early-morning fire.
- Estimated damage exceeds $1 million; no injuries were reported.
- Investigators say there is no evidence of criminal activity, but the cause remains under review.
Fire spread rapidly amid strong winds
Firefighters from the Singerly Fire Company and surrounding departments responded to the call around 1:40 a.m., finding flames consuming the rear portion of the building. Maryland State Police troopers were the first to arrive and confirmed heavy fire conditions throughout the structure.
Roughly 40 firefighters worked for nearly two hours to contain the blaze, battling gusty winds that helped the flames spread through the restaurant. The roof and both interior floors ultimately collapsed, leaving only charred debris behind. Heavy equipment was brought in to move wreckage and extinguish hotspots.
Investigators examine video footage
Deputy State Fire Marshals said surveillance footage shows the fire began at approximately 1:10 a.m. toward the rear of the restaurant near the deck patio. The video also confirmed that no vehicles or people were present before the fire started.
While the cause remains under investigation, officials said all possible accidental sources are being reviewed. Early findings indicate the blaze originated in the exterior section of the restaurant, where high winds may have accelerated the spread.
Restaurant deemed total loss
By sunrise, the structure was declared a total loss. Fire investigators and cleanup crews remained on scene for several hours as they sifted through debris.
The restaurant, a well-known waterfront dining destination along Plum Point Road, had been a fixture at Triton Marina for years. The Office of the State Fire Marshal is urging anyone with additional information or video footage to contact investigators as the inquiry continues.