Investigators Uncover Cause Behind Duke’s Roadhouse Blaze

More than six weeks after a fire affected Duke’s Roadhouse, officials have confirmed the incident was accidental. The blaze, which tore through the establishment’s north patio on March 8, was ignited by construction materials mixed with varnishing chemicals.

Maricopa’s public safety spokesperson, Monica Williams, detailed how the improperly disposed materials led to a combustion reaction, sparking the fire. Fire crews were dispatched at 10:07 p.m. that evening and managed to extinguish the flames within 30 minutes. Eyewitness accounts noted significant smoke at the scene, although no visible flames were present.

Fortunately, firefighters reported no structural damage to the building. Owner Steve Kovach expressed relief in a recent interview, assuring that construction plans would proceed without delay. “I’ve had a few restaurant fires, but none like this,” he said shortly after the incident.

Looking ahead, Kovach is optimistic about opening the boot scootin’ steakhouse by May. In preparation, Duke’s has already initiated hiring events on-site this week.