Sushi restaurant fire raises building safety concerns

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) - A late-night fire has temporarily closed Hamachi Sushi, leaving the restaurant's future uncertain.

Owner Carlos Pardo says an employee discovered smoke inside the building on Thursday.

Firefighters spent about three hours battling the blaze. Pardo says investigators determined the fire started when electrical wiring between the attic and ceiling came into contact with wood.

Pardo says he had previously reported concerns about the building's wiring, insulation and roof leaks to the landlord.

Now, his focus is on supporting employees and reopening as quickly as possible.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.