A tragic incident struck the village of Keskastel with the devastating fire that ravaged the restaurant-hotel L’Alsace. This iconic place, favored by locals and visitors alike, suffered considerable damage, leading to partial demolition work to secure the site. The collapse of certain parts of the building left the community in worry and shock.
The First Hours After the Fire
The fire broke out early Sunday morning around 4:30 AM, causing panic among the local population. The ancestors of this historic establishment saw their memories and work go up in smoke almost instantly. Thanks to the firefighters’ swift intervention, the fire was brought under control by early afternoon. Surprisingly, no casualties were reported, but the material damage is considerable.
A Alsatian Gastronomy Institution Cut Down by Flames
L’Alsace was not just a restaurant, but a true landmark for food lovers. Appreciated for its traditional Alsatian dishes and warm atmosphere, it has welcomed many customers over the years. The manager, Talip Yildirim, expressed his deep sorrow at this loss and recounted the friendliness that prevailed in this place, a living space for many villagers.
The Demolition and Securing Works
With the building’s structure threatened, partial demolition work was initiated to ensure the safety of passersby and surrounding buildings. The company Beck was entrusted with this delicate task, often facing difficult conditions. The firefighters from Sarre-Union remained mobilized to extinguish flare-ups and ensure there were no residual dangers.
Community Solidarity
The shock caused by this fire has inspired an incredible wave of solidarity within the Vallée du Werra. Local businesses and associations provided food and drinks to the responders, demonstrating the community spirit that prevails in the region. The mayor of Keskastel, Gabriel Glath, expressed his sympathy to the owners and promised unconditional support to assist in the future reconstruction of the site.
