San Diego Fire fighters are investigating a fire that broke out in the early morning hours that caused an estimated $1 million damage to sister concepts Hamilton's Tavern and South Park Brewing Company.
Reports are coming in that at around 5:30am this morning, a fire broke out in South Park along 30th Street. San Diego Firefighters had to force entry into Hamilton's Tavern, which had been closed to the public since July, and South Park Brewing. Crews were eventually able to put out the fire, although there are reports of extensive fire and smoke damage to both businesses totaling in excess of $1 million. Holes had to be cut in doors and the roof of building to release smoke. Officials are reporting that the fire likely started in the kitchen of Hamilton’s Tavern, which is sited between the two businesses. No injuries are being reported at this time and the cause of the fire continues to be under investigation by San Diego Metro Arson.
Hamilton's Tavern was founded in 2006 and is known as one of San Diego's original craft beer bars. South Park Brewing Company was opened in 2014. Both concepts are owned by Scot Donovan Blair, who has been outspoken about his opposition of the forced shutdowns during the COVID-19 era.
"As a South Park bar owner and disabled veteran, I have invested professionally in my San Diego community since 2006," wrote Blair in a commentary piece he dubbed for the San Diego Union Tribune entitled I was a proud San Diego small business owner. Not anymore that was published on August 3, 2020. "I worked hard to build my equity and then I turned around and invested in my community, generating millions of dollars in city and state taxes. I have spent over a million dollars in payroll, creating jobs and opportunities for a diverse workforce. I have been proud to be a middle-class San Diego small business owner. I am not so proud of San Diego or California anymore."
Both Hamilton's Tavern and South Park Brewing Company will be closed for the foreseeable future. For more information, watch the interview with Scot Blair following the fire, embedded below for your convenience.
This is a developing story. We will update this post as we learn more.
