Suspected arson fire at popular cafe controlled by sprinkler system (Fairfield, CT)

Fairfield police and fire officials have launched a “significant investigation” into a blaze at the Seagrape Cafe on Reef Road that was originally believed to be accidental but now appears to be arson, officials said Monday.

At 4:45 a.m. Friday, Oct. 31, Fairfield Fire Department received a water flow alarm from the Seagrape Cafe, indicating a sprinkler system had been activated, Assistant Fire Chief Christopher Tracy said.  Engine 1 responded to a small alleyway behind the Seagrape that directly abuts the Inn at Fairfield Beach about six minutes after the alarm, reports said. According to fire officials, Engine 1 was able to feed a hose through an exhaust fan in the back of the building that was off of the room where the fire was being “kept in check” by the Seagrape’s sprinkler system.