Fire Bar Aficionados Show Support

Katheen Monaghan of Crystal Lake was shocked by the news this past week that a former hangout of hers had been forced to close its doors following a vandalism.

Crystal Lake Police believe the vandalism at Fire Bar & Grill, 435 Angela Lane, occurred Monday night but have no leads or suspects at this point. Owners of the popular sports bar and restaurant learned of the extensive damage Tuesday morning when they went to open their business for the day.

The establishment remained closed Thursday evening, and it's unclear at this point when it will re-open.

Fire Bar Patrons Show Support

Monaghan said she enjoyed the bar for its music, people and events it put on, such as karaoke and poker.

"This bar has served the community so well," said Monaghan in an e-mail Thursday. "I could not believe that (the vandalism) was done."

 Toni DeFrancisco, a friend of the owners and former Fire Bar & Grill employee, said some items that were damaged "aren't easily replaced."

The Fire Bar owners have posted updates on their Facebook page and website to let patrons know about the vandalism they referred to as severe.

"Things are progressing a little slower than we'd like but we're starting to take some positive steps forward," according to the Fire Bar's Facebook page. "We'll keep everyone updated on a reopen date."

Many of the 1,000-plus Facebook fans of the Fire Bar in turn have left comments to show their support: Telling owners they'd be willing to help with the repairs, letting them know they missed their favorite bar and expressing disgust with the vandal or vandals responsible for shutting the establishment.

The Crystal Lake Police Department continues to investigate the vandalism. And the Fire Bar is offering a $5,000 reward for the arrest and convection of "those responsible."

Lee Ann Gill contributed to this article.