Statement on the fire at Squealing Pig Restaurant in Mission Hill

I am deeply saddened by the destruction by fire of the Squealing Pig in Mission Hill. This restaurant has been a staple of our community for 26 years, fostering fond memories of coming together in companionship, commemoration, and celebration.

As a small local family-owned and family-run business, this is a deeply felt impact in our community, and a devastating loss for the workers and family who have dedicated themselves each day to the ongoing success of this community hub.

I met yesterday with Diarmuid O'Neill, one of the family owners, and toured the site, along with District City Councilor Sharon Durkan. My office will continue to be in close contact with the O’Neill family, and I am committed to supporting the workers, community, and owners however I can.

I am grateful to our Boston Fire Department and first responders for their rapid, professional, and truly brave response, and their work to successfully contain this very dangerous fire from spreading further.

The circumstances of this fire are deeply disturbing, and the Boston Police Department and Boston Fire Department are actively working in close collaboration to conduct a thorough investigation. I tremendously appreciate their careful work to ensure proper evidence is collected and considered to enable appropriate action to be taken in holding anyone accountable who may have sought to harm our community.

I know the hearts of the O’Neill family are heavy, but resilient. They are a part of the Mission Hill family, and I know we will all continue to stand alongside them in support of rebuilding.