After damaged caused in burglary, Montana Mike’s set to reopen Wednesday

A burglary, which Newton police say is linked to extensive damage to the popular Montana Mike’s Steakhouse restaurant off Highway 14 and Interstate 80, has kept the business shuttered since late January. But, according to Montana Mike’s representatives, it may be reopening as early as Wednesday.

According to Montana Mike’s General Manager in Training B.J. Bell, the restaurant is expected to re-open.

“It should be open by (Feb. 13),” Bell told the Newton Daily News Friday. “I’m not 100 percent sure (why it’s closed). That would be a question for the owner. That’s all I really know.”

Restaurant Owner Dave Lilly could not be reached for comment, and the phone line for the Newton restaurant is currently disconnected.

According to Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess, officers were sent to the restaurant on a call of a burglary at 6:55 a.m. Jan 27. Investigators declined to comment about the exact cause of the damage, but the Newton Fire Department is actively involved in the investigation.

“Police found that sometime during the overnight hours the suspect(s) entered the business through a window and caused extensive property damage to the interior of the building,” Burdess said.

The burglary is still under investigation by NPD, and anyone with knowledge related to the incident is encouraged to contact the police department or Jasper County Crime Stoppers.

The restaurant, located at 1400 W. 18th St. S., has seen a lot of activity from repair workers as of Monday morning. Vehicles from business such as Clean Air and Deaver Electric, Inc. were on site, and much of the inside appears to be under maintenance. Its driveway is also blocked off by traffic cones.

The only public announcement the restaurant has made came on the Montana Mike's Steakhouse Facebook page Jan. 27.

“Due to unfortunate circumstances, our Newton Montana Mikes Store will be closed today 1/27/19,” the Facebook post said. “We are sorry for any inconveniences that this may cause.”

Assisting in the investigation was the NFD, who were on the scene. Mike Knoll, Newton fire marshal, said they were in collaboration with NPD with the restaurant investigation but do not yet have any leads.

“We are working with the police on this, and it’s still under investigation,” Knoll said.

Contact Orrin Shawl at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or oshawl@newtondailynews.com