Fire Destroys Fort Lauderdale’s Backyard Bar

The fire began at about 3 a.m. at Backyard along Southwest Third Avenue in central Fort Lauderdale. Flames spread to the neighboring Poorhouse bar, where people were inside. Backyard was unoccupied when the fire started, officials said.

Fire crews raised the response to a second alarm, bringing about 80 firefighters to the scene. The blaze was brought under control in roughly half an hour. Backyard was left a total loss.

People in Poorhouse got out safely, and officials said no civilians were hurt. One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

A patron described people rushing to leave the neighboring bar, with some stumbling as they made their way out. Witnesses also described heavy smoke visible from nearby streets.

The flames reportedly began near a stage toward the rear of Backyard. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.