The Mcdonalds on Encinitas Boulevard burned to the ground on Sept. 2, due to an accidental gas explosion caused by a faulty cooking appliance reported Encinitas Fire Marshall Robert Scott. According to Scott, workers reported the outbreak of flames around 8:30 p.m. and five fire trucks were sent to the home of the Big Mac.

 “It took an hour to knock the flames down, and around another hour to put out the smoldering flames,” said Scott. Though the fire fighters were dismissed at 11 p.m., an engine was stationed at the scene overnight to ensure that the premises was safe and under control.

SDA students’ opinions varied about the gutted fast food restaurant. “I am a little sad that it burned down, because I used to get the 50 cent ice cream cones every Thursday,  and now I have to spend more money on gas to drive all the way to the other one,” said senior Sydney Goodman. 

Others, like sophomore Sierra Gallant, weren’t quite as affected. “There is a Mcdonalds right down the street, and anyways maybe people will choose a healthier option [now],” said Gallant.

 While no workers were injured in the fire, three firemen underwent minor injuriesdue to the severity of the flames. Though no one was to blame for the fire, Scott stressed the importance of always taking proper precautions and maintaining all appliences.