A FIRE BROKE OUT at Richie's Grill in Hawkins just after 6 a.m. Tuesday when staff members started the fryer. Owner Ricky Perez worries that the eatery won't be able to host Thanksgiving meals for the community this year.

An early morning fire destroyed a popular Hawkins eatery.

Fire crews responded just after 6 a.m. Tuesday to Richie’s Grill, 110 W. Front St., in Hawkins. The fire was contained to Richie’s and no other businesses were affected and no injuries were reported, according to officials.

Owner Ricky Perez said the fire began when the fryer was started.

Perez said he is concerned for his employees and that they cannot host the annual community Thanksgiving.

Since 2010, the restaurant has kept its Hawkins and Winnsboro locations open for the holiday to give customers without family a place to go and enjoy a free meal.