Rear patio of the Tropicana / Photos by Jason Benavides

June 14. By Dave Yochum. An early-morning fire at the Tropicana at 19830 W. Catawba caused extensive damage to the rear patio area. No one was hurt, but the Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville fire departments responded.

Firefighters were dispatched at 4:41 am, and arrived at 4:45 am. Chief Guerry Barbee said the fire was controlled at 5:02 am.

Two engines and one ladder were dispatched from Cornelius, as well as one ladder from Davidson and one engine from Huntersville. Cornelius Police, Medic and the Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal’s Office were also on scene.

Premises unsafe

The premises have been deemed unsafe by the fire marshall.

Jimmy John’s, located next door, is open for business.

Tropicana officials could not be reached for comment.