The Pik N Pig, known statewide for its barbecue and down-home atmosphere, was destroyed by a fire early Sunday morning. The community is rallying to support the restaurant and its owners, the Sheppard family.
Firefighters from departments across the county responded to the blaze. Seven Lakes Firefighter Greg Ryder said the county’s emergency management system sent out its first notification at 3:46 a.m. “Carthage (fire and rescue) and following units knocked it down fairly quickly with hand lines, then the ladder truck took over and let it rain,” he said.
The building suffered extensive damage.
“Unfortunately, we have experienced an extreme tragedy here at the Pik N Pig,” the restaurant posted on Facebook at around 7:30 a.m. “There has been a massive fire. Nobody was hurt. There is extensive damage to our beautiful place. We will be closed until further notice. Very sorry for any inconvenience. So sorry about any orders that have already been placed. Please keep us in your prayers. Our hearts are broken.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Meanwhile, the Pinehurst Barbecue Festival — which features Ashley Sheppard as a pitmaster — has set up an online fundraiser for the Sheppard family and the restaurant. Strong business leaders in the community, the Sheppards have served on a number of nonprofit boards and supporting fundraisers over the years.
“The funds raised by this GoFundMe will be directly donated to the Sheppard family to assist in their efforts to rebuild,” the Pinehurst Barbecue Festival wrote on the fundraising page. Donate here.
