Fire Results In Extensive Damage To Cattleman's Restaurant In Liberal

Liberal Firefighters were dispatched  at 6:53 a.m., Sunday, May 28, to 744 E Pancake for a report that the building, Cattleman's Restaurant, was on fire.

Upon arrival, according to a fire department spokesperson, firefighters found heavy smoke issuing from the building and were informed an employee of the business had advised the fire was in the kitchen area.

Firefighters made entry and were quickly able to knock down the main body of fire in the kitchen, according to the spokesperson. As the building was opened and ventilated, it was discovered the fire had extended to the attic space as well. Access to the attic required extensive effort from both the interior and exterior.

Officials declared the fire under control at 8:17 am. The building suffered extensive fire damage to the kitchen, main dining room and attic space. The remainder of the building suffered from heat and smoke damage. Fire investigators have determined the fire began in the kitchen and spread outward from there. Firefighters remained on-scene overhauling hotspots and conducting investigation efforts until 11:49 am.

Liberal Fire responded with a total of 16 personnel, two engines, a ladder truck and four support/chief officer vehicles. Other agencies assisting with the fire were the Liberal Police Department, Southern Pioneer Electric, Black Hills Energy, Liberal Water Department and the Liberal / Seward County Emergency Communications Center.