SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) — The Office of the State Fire Marshal continues to investigate what caused a popular restaurant to go up in flames.

Matunuck Oyster Bar on Succotash Road in South Kingstown was heavily damaged after it caught fire early Tuesday morning. Officials haven't said whether the building is a total loss, but indicated that's a possibility.

The exact cause of the fire is still unknown, but the fire marshal's office said that at this point, it appears to be accidental in nature.

"Based on information collected to date by inspectors, several possible causes have been ruled out including commercial cooking equipment being a direct cause of the fire," the agency wrote in a press release Thursday.

The fire marshal's office said steps have been taken to preserve the fire scene and make sure it's safe for investigators, as well as prevent nearby waterways from getting contaminated.

Matunuck Oyster Bar has been around since 2009 and employs more than 300 full-time and seasonal workers. Staff members and patrons alike have said it's far more than just a restaurant and were devastated to see the damage from the fire.

Multiple fundraisers have been started to help the business and all of its employees recover, including a GoFundMe and a campaign though the RI Hospitality Association.

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