Controversial topless cafe in US gutted by fire

Washington, June 4 (ANI): A controversial topless cafe in Maine, US, was gutted by fire on Wednesday.

Fire officials believe that the fire at the Grand View Topless Coffee Shop in Vassalboro, just north of Augusta, was intentionally set.

The blaze was reported about 1 a.m. at the cafe, where shirtless waitresses served Java to ogling patrons, angering locals.

The cafe had been drawing national attention ever since it opened in February.

Its owner Donald Crabtree escaped unharmed along with six others, who were inside the building when the fire was reported.

Crabtree said he lost his home and business in the fire, and that he had no insurance, reports Fox News.

The fire took place hours after Crabtree discussed his plans with town planners to the venue more like a strip club, with longer hours and dancing.

The shop raised the ire of dozens of residents when it initially went before the town planning board. (ANI)