Bronx Blaze Destroys Local Businesses
BRONX, N.Y. (CBS 2) -- A fast-moving 3-alarm fire in the Bronx not only left 18 people homeless Monday morning, but it also destroyed several stores - which many residents say were badly needed.
Ten hours after the first fire broke out, a second pocket of fire was discovered still smoldering in the row of businesses and apartments on White Plains Road in Williamsburg.
Firefighters worked to put out the second fire, which ripped through a barber shop scheduled to have its grand opening this week, leaving it nothing a pile of debris.
Fire marshals are searching for the cause of the suspicious fire, which left three firefighters and police with minor injuries as it burned through the homes and storefronts.
"When you see that much fire, it doesn't come from just anywhere," said FDNY Chief Patrick Hawkins. "Someone's got to start it."
Three stores were destroyed, including The Gold More Express, a longtime neighborhood deli. Neighbors said they had relied on the shop for years.
"Nice people, very friendly," said resident Shirley Brown. "When I first moved here, they welcomed us."
Mohammed Lawani had opening a ladies' clothing store just a few months ago, and had trouble believing what he saw early this morning.
"Everything I've lost so far," he said. "It's a lot of money."
The nearby real estate business was one of the few that was spared.
"I just thank the lord that it didn't catch fire," said owner Marcia Campbell. "I just thank God it's still standing. It couldn't been worse."
Once the fire marshals determine the case of the fire, the 75-year-old buildings will most likely be demolished.
The Red Cross is now providing temporary shelter for the 14 adults and 4 children left homeless by the blaze.
