Fire destroys Zandra’s Taqueria in downtown Culpeper
Fire destroys Zandra’s Taqueria in downtown Culpeper
A beloved Culpeper restaurant is a total loss after a Saturday fire ripped through the building and sent first responders scrambling to contain the damage.
CULPEPER, Va. - A beloved Culpeper restaurant is a total loss after a Saturday fire ripped through the building and sent first responders scrambling to contain the damage.
What we know:
Officials say the fire broke out shortly before 6:30 a.m. at Zandra's Taqueria. By the time crews arrived, the blaze had already caused significant structural collapse, ultimately destroying the restaurant and leaving it in rubble.
Drone footage reviewed by investigators showed the full extent of the destruction, with the building heavily damaged and still producing hot spots hours after the initial call. Fire crews used drone technology to help locate and monitor those remaining heat sources, assisting in suppression efforts, according to officials.
Fire destroys Zandra’s Taqueria in downtown Culpeper (Culpeper Police Department).
According to the Culpeper Police Department, one of its drone units was already in the area and responded quickly to support firefighting operations.
Officials also confirmed that nearby structures, including apartments and an office space above the restaurant, were part of the impacted building.
Despite the devastation, officials said all approximately 20 staff members are safe. However, the restaurant’s pet, a Jack Russell terrier, did not survive the fire.
What they're saying:
Deputy Chief Nicholas White described the loss as significant for downtown Culpeper, noting the restaurant’s role in the community near Davis Street and Commerce Street. The restaurant opened its Culpeper location in late 2023 and quickly became a local favorite, she said.
In a statement shared online, ownership expressed gratitude for community support and said they are now focused on insurance matters and exploring relocation options.
In the aftermath, community support has poured in. A GoFundMe campaign set up to assist employees has already raised more than $20,000, surpassing its initial goal.
What we don't know:
Authorities with the Culpeper County Volunteer Fire Department said the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Source: Information in this article comes from the Culpeper Police Department and Culpeper County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association, Inc.