Fire officials say last week’s destructive fire at Henry’s BBQ in Summerville may have started in or around a heater near the front of the restaurant, and investigators say the building’s roofing and structural construction likely contributed to how quickly the blaze intensified.

Summerville Police Chief and Public Safety Director Brian Ozment said an employee was in the back of the building preparing for business the next day when she heard popping sounds coming from the front. When she went to check, Ozment said the front area was already filled with heavy smoke.

The fire broke out Tuesday evening, January 20, at Henry’s BBQ on Commerce Street, and crews arrived to find the building reported as fully involved. Firefighters worked aggressively to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading.

Investigators say once the fire reached roof-level components, older roofing materials and the roof structure helped drive the fire, making it more difficult to stop and contributing to the extent of the damage. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials say additional information is expected as the investigation continues.