Fire Rips Through Shopping Center In West Long Branch, New Jersey

WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A fast-moving fire damaged three stores at a shopping center in West Long Branch, New Jersey Saturday, but authorities said no injuries were reported.

The fire at the Carriage Square center in West Long Branch was reported around 10:30 a.m. Saturday.

Authorities said it apparently started in the ceiling of one business and soon spread to two others, but it's not yet known what sparked the blaze.

Authorities shut down a stretch of Route 36 while numerous firefighters fought the blaze, causing extensive travel delays in the area. The fire also spawned a thick, heavy cloud of smoke that was visible from miles away.

Crews were still on the scene by late Saturday afternoon, working to extinguish several hot spots at the center.

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