Fire damages Fremont eatery; reopening stalled

4/9/2004

FREMONT - A fire that broke out shortly before 4 a.m. yesterday near the deep fryer of Lee's Famous Recipe Country Chicken yesterday is expected to keep the restaurant closed for three to six weeks.

Fire investigators are looking into whether the cooker was left on overnight, Fremont fire Capt. Dave Foos said.

The fire department estimated damage at $50,000.

While the restaurant is closed, Larry Bowman, restaurant supervisor, said some employees will be given jobs at the other Lee's Famous Recipe eatery in Sandusky.

The 22-year-old restaurant is owned by Ken Collins.