UPPER ARLINGTON: Matt Schmidt, 43, a fifth-generation member of the family behind Schmidt’s Sausage Haus in German Village, died early Easter morning after a house fire at his home on the 3800 block of Chevington Road in Upper Arlington, according to the multiple local news outlets.
Firefighters found Schmidt on the first floor of his home around 4:30 a.m. Sunday. His wife, Becky, and their three young daughters escaped the fire safely. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Who Matt Schmidt Was
Schmidt served as brand ambassador for Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, one of Columbus’s most recognized restaurants. Located on Kossuth Street in German Village, the restaurant is celebrating its 140th anniversary this year. Schmidt was frequently featured on the restaurant’s social media accounts and was widely known as the public face of the family business.
He and Becky bought their home on Chevington Road in 2019. Schmidt was also active in the community, participating with the Upper Arlington Civic Association.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus released a statement Sunday confirming his death.
“There are no words to describe the tragic loss of Matt Schmidt. Matt was first and foremost a devoted and loving husband to his wife and a father to his three young daughters,” the statement said. “Matt was also a fifth generation Schmidt family member and his magnetic personality, kindness and service to all he met — both personally and professionally — made him the face of Schmidt’s. He was the best of us and lived out our values of family, hospitality and service every day of his life. We thank everyone who has reached out for their care and concern during this devastating time for the Schmidt family.”
An online fundraiser organized on behalf of Schmidt’s wife and daughters received nearly $75,000 in donations in less than 24 hours of being posted.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. No additional information has been released by fire or police officials.
This is a developing story. ColumbusFrontline.com will update as the investigation continues.
This article is based on reporting from the local media, and a statement from Schmidt’s Sausage Haus.
Published: April 6, 2026 | ColumbusFrontline.com