Midlothian Burger King Closed After Roof Fire Severely Damages Inside

OAK FOREST, IL — A Midlothian Burger King will be closed until further notice after a fire on the roof of the fast food chain caused water and smoke damage to the inside, Midlothian officials said.

According to Fire Chief Stephen Hotwagner, the fire began at the 14300 South Cicero Avenue location Friday shortly after noon. When firefighters arrived, Hotwagner said they noticed smoke coming from the roof.

On the roof, a small fire had started in the building's air conditioning unit, which had to be taken apart in order for the fire to be fully extinguished. Inside, officials had to tear down a piece of the building's ceiling to ensure all flames were gone.

Hotwagner said the fire likely began due to Friday's high temperatures, encouraging restaurants to crank the air conditioning and causing the older motor to overheat.

The restaurant suffered smoke and water damage but no injuries were reported in the incident.