Waterman’s Not A Complete Rebuild After Fire

WEST OCEAN CITY -- Less than a month after a devastating fire at the popular West Ocean City restaurant, the future of the Waterman’s Seafood Company looks bright, as it now appears the main structure will be salvaged and not entirely demolished as feared in the wake of the blaze.

The fire was reported around 6:45 p.m. on Oct. 5 and first arriving units from the Ocean City Fire Company reported fire extending from the roof area of the two-and-a-half story landmark restaurant on Route 50 in West Ocean City. The restaurant was open and crowded at the height of the dinner rush on a busy Friday evening, but the evacuation was orderly and no injuries were reported.

The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office conducted an investigation and determined the fire originated in a second-floor attic area and was caused by a faulty electrical circuit. In the days following the fire, the historic building appeared to be large intact with very little damage on the front of the establishment, but the scars of the blaze are can clearly be observed on the roof and rear areas upon closer inspection. At first, there was concern the entire restaurant would have to be demolished, but those fears have been allayed after a thorough inspection and renovation plan.

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