The state fire marshal’s office is asking for the public to help with the investigation into the fire that destroyed a popular restaurant in mid-coast Maine early Sunday.

Schooner Landing Restaurant in Damariscotta, a popular waterside venue with outdoor seating and live music, was leveled by a fire reported just before 3 a.m.

On Tuesday, with Main Street back open and traffic flowing into the downtown, the fire marshal issued an alert asking the public for any photos or video of the fire before local fire departments arrived on scene.

Also, they want to know if anyone saw anything suspicious.

The alert — posted on local police and fire department Facebook pages and confirmed by Damariscotta police — indicates that the investigation is ongoing and that no cause has been determined.

“To further the investigation, we need assistance from the public,” according to the request. “If you have information in reference to this fire, we want to hear from you.”

Those with information should call the state fire marshal at 207-624-7076 or the local police at 207-882-7332.

Damariscotta Selectman Tom Anderson said Tuesday that Schooner Landing is a local landmark.

“It’s prominent in the downtown and is the only restaurant on the water,” he said. “It’s been a big blow to the town. We’re hopeful they will rebuild.”

As news of the fire spread via social media, many commented that they were heartbroken by the loss.

“It was ‘the’ place people went for togetherness, goodwill and a sense of community,” musician Steve Jones posted on Facebook. “I’m extremely grateful for those memories, some of the best of my life, and for the decades of joy and unity we’ve all been able to share and experience together at Schooner.”

River House Maine, a restaurant in nearby Newcastle, posted that they were thankful no one was hurt but noted that about 50 people are now out of work.

“Last night our community lost an institution,” the restaurant posted. “Schooner’s was an integral part of summer dining and entertainment in Damariscotta. Live music daily and a place for friends to gather.”

Damariscotta River Cruises, which operates on a dock attached to the restaurant, called it “a devastating event” but noted that their boats were spared and they plan to go forward with their fall schedule.

“Good news: The restaurant plans to rise from the ashes by next spring!” river cruises posted on its Facebook page.