Fire severely damages family-owned Cobb meat company

Hours after a raging fire Monday night caused a well-known Cobb County meat company to temporarily shut down, hundreds in the Austell community took to social media to assure the family-owned business they will be present at the reopening.

Early Tuesday morning, Patak Meat Products announced on Facebook that a fire broke out at the factory and caused severe damage. The business, which has been specializing in European meats and sausages since 1981, will be temporarily closed.

“It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the temporary closure of our retail, wholesale and online operations,” the company wrote in the post. “Until we see you again …”

Cobb fire crews were called to the butcher shop on Ewing Road around 10:40 p.m., department spokesman Ramses Rivas said. Upon arrival, crews found heavy flames coming from the center of the building.

The fire was “aggressively attacked” and Rivas said crews were able to save the front side of the building where the smokers and dry goods were stored.

“Patak is a staple in our community and we’re devastated,” Rivas said. “The fire department family is looking forward to their reopening as soon as possible.”

Rivas confirmed there were no injuries. The fire is still under investigation with no foul play suspected, he said.

The fire comes about two years after Patak Meats moved to the Austell location after the company outgrew its previous spot between the original Buckhead Beef and Atlanta Fish Market on Pharr Road.

Despite the damage, the Patak family said they look forward to seeing their customers again. Countless members of the community posted on social media about the business and those who work there.

“Tragic news! Thankful all are safe,” a comment similar to numerous others on the Facebook post reads. “Your loyal customers are standing with you as you rebuild and look forward to your reopening. Prayers of comfort for the family.”