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Vol. 21, No. 11, Wednesday, December 10, 2025
DEADLINE: Dec 18 @ Noon
Fire destroys beloved local restaurant BY JANA SEMENIUK Bruderheim’s Highway 45 restaurant was gutted by fire in the early morning hours of Dec. 3. The popular Chinese eatery, a staple in the small town for many years, was completely lost in the blaze. RCMP Spokesperson Cpl. Troy Savinkoff said although the cause is still undetermined, it does not seem suspicious. “At 3:29 a.m., Fort Saskatchewan RCMP responded to a report of a structure fire at a restaurant on 48 street in Bruderheim. Upon arrival, the fire had already engulfed the building,” said Savinkoff. “RCMP assisted with traffic control and scene containment. The structure was a total loss. RCMP continue to work with the fire investigator to determine cause. The fire does not appear suspicious at this time.” Lamont County Communications Coordinator Jay Zaal also confirmed by email that Lamont County emergency crews were dispatched at 3:25 a.m. and said they arrived approximately 10 minutes later. Zaal also confirmed the building was not salvageable. “Crews were dispatched to a working structure fire on Highway 45 on the south edge of Bruderheim, and arrived to a fully involved single-story restaurant,” said Zaal by email. Zaal also confirmed that no injuries were reported and the “building has suffered a roof collapse and will be a total loss.”
Meanwhile, fans of the popular restaurant shared more than 35 messages of support for the business owners on the Highway 45 social media page. “Our family's favourite,” said one commenter. “Devastating news to wake up to this morning, but we’re happy to know you're all safe.” “Sorry for the loss of this building, many good memories, hope that you will rebuild,” said another. “Bruderheim will not be the same without this business... great food and friendly staff.” While some gave messages of condolence, others shared fond memories of a time in the early 80s when the restaurant was known as Max’s Drive In. Kids flocked to the then-burgerjoint for “fries and gravy and played table-top pac-man”. Bruderheim AG Society member Sherry Cote said the news is “devastating”. Bruderheim Mayor Ron Ewasiuk said he hopes the owners will recover and rebuild. “Like everyone I was very sad to hear of the fire at Highway 45 restaurant,” said Ewasiuk. “On behalf of council, our prayers are with the owners, and we hope they can rebuild in time.” The owners put a post on their social media page acknowledging the fire and said they will update as more information is available.
Bruderheim's Highway 45 restaurant in happier days.
The restaurant is engulfed in flames during the early morning of Dec. 3.
Smoldering remains of the town's popular chinese restaurant.