Beaufort Fire Department responds to two fires at local food chains

The Beaufort Fire Department responded to two separate calls at local restaurants Thursday. No injuries were reported at the incidents.

The first occurred at about 7:30 a.m. at the McDonald's on Boundary Street. According to fire department spokesman Dan Byrne, a driver was in the drive-through and noticed smoke coming from her passenger engine compartment. She moved her vehicle away from the building and called 911. When the Beaufort Fire Department arrived to find smoke and flames coming from the hood. The extent of damage was not available.

The second fire occurred at Zaxby's on Robert Smalls Parkway after noon. An employee called to report the building was on fire, and patrons were being evacuated. Burton and Beaufort fire crews responded on the scene. The fire, which started in the fryer, was extinguished by the manager using two fire extinguishers. Damages were limited to the fryers and electrical outlets. No injuries were reported. The restaurant will be closed at least until Saturday for repairs.