Dearborn, MI — May 14, 2025
A devastating fire tore through Dearborn’s largest and most popular restaurant late Tuesday evening, resulting in the tragic deaths of five local athletes. Authorities have confirmed that the blaze broke out around 8:45 p.m. at Al-Hamra Palace, a well-known Middle Eastern restaurant and banquet hall located on Warren Avenue.
Fire crews responded within minutes, but the flames had already engulfed much of the interior. Witnesses reported seeing smoke billowing from the roof as patrons scrambled to evacuate. Despite the efforts of first responders, five individuals — all members of a local semi-professional soccer team — were unable to escape.
Dearborn Fire Chief Michael Carter stated that the victims were dining in a private room toward the back of the restaurant, which may have contributed to their difficulty in evacuating. “This is a heartbreaking loss,” Carter said. “Our crews did everything they could, but the fire spread rapidly through the structure.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation, though initial reports suggest it may have started in the kitchen. More than 80 guests were inside the restaurant at the time of the incident, many celebrating Eid festivities following sunset prayers.
Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud expressed deep sorrow at a press conference early Wednesday morning. “Our hearts are with the families of those we lost,” he said. “These young men were not just athletes, but community leaders and role models.”
The identities of the victims are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The restaurant has been closed indefinitely as investigators work to determine the cause and assess the damage.
Counseling services are being offered to grieving teammates and community members through local organizations.
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