Fire damages former Bobby Salazar's restaurant in central Fresno; cause under investigation

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A fire broke out early Friday at the former Bobby Salazar's restaurant in central Fresno, prompting a response from fire crews who reported heavy smoke and flames coming from the building.

Firefighters were called shortly after 12:30 a.m. to the area of Blackstone and Michigan avenues after reports of smoke. When crews arrived, they found flames and thick smoke coming from the boarded-up structure.

Officials said the fire grew inside the building as crews worked to contain it, but firefighters were ultimately able to get it under control. No one was inside at the time of the fire, according to officials.

The building had no power, and investigators noted it had been boarded up when crews arrived.

Battalion Chief Kirk Wanless with the Fresno Fire Department said it is possible someone may have entered the structure.

"There are ways to get into this building. There are holes in the roof from previous fires, and from activities we do as firefighters, so it is possible that people got in there," Wanless said.

Authorities are still working to determine the cause of the fire.

The incident marks another fire at the same location. In April 2024, a leader of a motorcycle gang was accused of setting fire to the restaurant.

RELATED: Bobby Salazar and two others indicted on felony charges

Robert "Bobby" Salazar, who is accused of hiring that person, posted a one-million-dollar bond and remains out of custody as his case proceeds through the court system.

For news updates, follow Danyelle Burke North on Instagram and TikTok.