Fire destroyed a downtown Statesboro restaurant Tuesday night.

The cause of the blaze that engulfed South and Vine restaurant, at South Main and West Vine streets, is yet unknown, said Statesboro Fire Chief Tim Grams.

Firefighters were called out around 11:25 p.m. Tuesday and found the building "heavily involved," he said. Firefighters were able to go in and contain the flames, which appeared to have started around the rear of the business.

An adjacent business, Déjà Vu consignment shop, sustained smoke and heat damage, Grams said. Containing the blaze was a challenge because the buildings are old, but firefighters launched "a pretty aggressive attack" and managed the fire before it spread, he said. "It was a pretty big accomplishment with buildings that old."

The Bulloch County Fire Department also responded as part of the mutual aid agreement between the city and county, and Grams said he appreciated the assistance. Also, the Metter Fire Department responded to assist and "manned the Grady Street station" in case of other fires while Statesboro and Bulloch County firefighters battled the blaze for four hours until it was extinguished, he said.

Firefighters monitored the scene throughout the night to ensure flames did not reignite, he said. There were no reported injuries.

Holli Deal Saxon may be reached at (912) 489-9414.