SWLA businesses hold benefit for Area 337 restaurant after fire

Lake Charles, La. (KPLC) - Businesspeople around the area held a fundraiser tonight in support of a business owner whose restaurant was damaged in a fire.

Area 337 burned during the early morning of May 22. Investigators believe the fire was set intentionally.

The benefit at Crying Eagle Brewing Company, complete with live music and an auction with items donated from the community, will help owner Gus Garden repair and reopen Area 337.

“A lot of positive steps that we’ve taken, we surround ourselves with different family. We surround ourselves with different people that want to see us succeed. And you know, I’m focused on bringing more to the area, focused on Lake Charles, their community and to give everything I can give them,” Garden said.

We reached out to investigators today. They said the arson remains under investigation, and no arrests have been made.

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