Cesina's Sausage Co. in Aliquippa damaged by afternoon fire
Cesina's Sausage Company in Aliquippa was damaged by an afternoon fire.
Fire crews were called to the business located along Kennedy Boulevard just before 4 p.m. on Monday.
The owner of the business told KDKA that he wasn't there when the fire broke out, but was shocked to find smoke billowing from his building.
"This is our busiest, best time of the year," John Costanza said. "It's hard. You feel like you almost feel sorry that you're going to let people down that look forward to having your product. It's like a gut punch."
The business later said on Facebook that they were deeply moved and grateful to the Beaver County departments that responded to the fire.
"Braving the freezing temperatures, these dedicated firemen and firewomen selflessly put their lives on the line to control the situation," the business said.
The business said that thankfully, no one was harmed and thanked the community for support, love, prayers, and well wishes.
"In challenging times such as these, we are reminded of the incredible strength and kindness that surrounds us," the business said. "Thank you for standing by us."
Aliquippa community reacts to fire
Robert Jones of Aliquippa said he talked with the owner a couple of times. He called him a "good guy for the community," adding that he was always willing to help.
Jones said some restaurants in the immediate area used Cesina's as a supply, and that their sausage was "very, very delicious."
He wants to see Cesina's back open one day, and said he plans to help do what that takes.
"Anything he needs from the community, we will back him, and we will help [Costanza and Cesina's]," Jones said.
Costanza had also said that his phone was ringing constantly on Monday night, with community members calling him to express their support.
The goal is to reopen
Costanza told KDKA Monday night that a lot of things are up in the air right now concerning a potential reopening of the sausage shop.
The goal is to reopen, he said, but it may not be at the current location on Kennedy Boulevard. There are some positives as they move forward with the process, however.
"Thank God all the bills were paid, all the insurance was covered," Costanza said.