Historic Krispy Kreme Catches Fire

ATLANTA — For years, when the red neon “Hot” light was on at this Atlanta institution, cars passing by would stop in for warm, melty, doughy, sugary goodness and coffee and a smile.

But early Wednesday morning, a different kind of red glow brought anything but joy. Krispy Kreme was on fire.

NBA superstar Shaquille O'Neal owns the business and told 11Alive News the Krispy Kreme would recover.

“We will bounce back better than ever,” O'Neal said.

Firefighters were called to the building on 295 Ponce de Leon Ave., shortly after 1 a.m., according to Atlanta Fire & Rescue Department reports.

Two workers were able to escape the fire unharmed, Fox 5 Atlanta News reported.

The building has served hot doughnuts and coffee from that location since it opened in 1965. The next closest location? Atlanta’s West End at 633 Evans Street, SW, less than five miles away.

The cause of the fire is unknown at this time, however, it is under investigation.