MIDDLETOWN, Conn. (AP) – A diner that became a landmark over the decades was severely damaged by fire on Thursday, and its owner is unsure whether it will reopen.

The fire at O’Rourke’s Diner on Main Street may have been caused by a steamer that was left on overnight, fire officials told WFSB-TV. The eatery – a small railroad car diner – was not insured.

Brian O’Rourke, whose family has owned the diner since 1941, said he’s unsure whether the diner will be back in business, but he’s optimistic.

“I don’t know what the future of the diner is,” he said. “The diner is still there, there is great spirit there and O’Rourke’s will continue to grow. “I don’t think I could open a diner anywhere else,” O’Rourke said. “Will it reopen here? That’s a question I can’t answer.”

Deputy Fire Chief Rob Kronenberger said the diner can be rebuilt.

“With a lot of hard work that building could be back up and running,” he said.