Prominent Berlin Food Store Ravaged By Fire: FD

BERLIN, CT — A prominent food market in town beloved for its homemade grinders, soups and salads is reeling following a serious fire that damaged its building over the weekend.

But, the owners of the Kensington Market on 1014 Farmington Ave., Berlin, said they will only be closed for a few weeks and they're grateful no one was hurt.

According to the Berlin Fire Department, the blaze happened early Saturday morning at about 1:39 a.m.

Initially reported as just a fire alarm, firefighters quickly realized the situation was much more serious, according to the fire department.

Responders arrived and immediately noticed a smoke condition inside the building's rear first-floor area, prompting immediate calls for additional units, fire officials said.

Eventually, firefighters found flames within the building's walls in the rear of the store, with firefighting operations taking about two and a half hours, according to fire officials.

"Kensington Market is located within a historic building in the center of town. The establishment sustained moderate damage to the interior and rear of the building," wrote the fire department.

Fire officials said the site was previously known as "Victory Market," which has "been a mainstay in the community for numerous generations."

Firefighters said they believe the blaze started near a stove, but the cause is still under investigation.

Helping Berlin firefighters Saturday morning were units from Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Newington and Wethersfield, authorities said.

Meanwhile, the owners of the store said they're grateful the damage is repairable and no one suffered any serious injuries.

The fire department said one resident in an upstairs apartment was evacuated and no one else was injured.

"When horrible things happen, it is the most amazing blessing to be surrounded by a community like ours. Last night, fire caused structural damage to Kensington Market. The fire alarm set in motion what will prove to be a tough few weeks as we rebuild," wrote the market Saturday on social media.

"But it also set in motion so many things for which we are truly grateful."

Vowing to recover from the blaze, the market's owners offered thanks to the community for its well-wishes and support over the weekend.

The market only said it would be closed for "a few weeks" and urged the community to regularly check its Facebook page for updates on the rebuild.

The market also apologized to folks who had placed orders for Super Bowl parties for this weekend, with this time of year being a busy time for its catering services.