Restaurant Owner Dies After Altercation at Winnipeg Business

A tragic incident unfolded at a Winnipeg restaurant on Wednesday, resulting in the death of the establishment’s owner. According to the Winnipeg Police, a physical altercation took place outside the Cork & Flame restaurant, located on Portage Avenue and Golf Boulevard in the Kirkfield neighborhood. Kyriakos Vogiatzakis, 51, the owner of the popular eatery, was immediately rushed to the hospital but unfortunately passed away.

Prompted by a call received at approximately 5:30 p.m., officers swiftly arrived at the scene to find Vogiatzakis in critical condition. While a male suspect was apprehended nearby, no charges have been filed at this time. Police spokesperson Const. Jason Michalyshen revealed that the incident likely occurred just outside the business, stating, ‘There was some contact initially made and things clearly escalated. We’re [now] talking about the death of a member of our community.’

As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Vogiatzakis’ death continues, police have yet to determine if it is being treated as a homicide. An autopsy will be conducted to ascertain the exact cause of death. While details about the altercation remain undisclosed, Const. Michalyshen assured that more information would be released as it becomes available.

Kyriakos Vogiatzakis was well-known in Winnipeg’s hospitality industry and was previously the owner of the River Rouge Cruise line. Dismayed by the tragic news, his brother Mike Vogiatzakis shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, confirming the loss but declined further comment. The Cork & Flame restaurant, meanwhile, posted a notice on its front door stating it is temporarily closed ‘due to unforeseen circumstances.’

Const. Michalyshen appealed to witnesses who may have crucial information about the incident to come forward. He urged anyone who was near the restaurant around the time of the altercation, especially those with video surveillance, to contact the police’s major crimes unit at 204-986-6219. Anonymous tips can also be left through Crime Stoppers at 204-786-8477 or via their online platform.

This tragic event has left the community grieving and in search of answers. Winnipeg residents unite in mourning the loss of Kyriakos Vogiatzakis, a respected member of the hospitality industry and a beloved figure in the city.