Officials Investigating Fire That Destroyed Southington Market

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Investigators on Monday were at the scene a fire that destroyed a popular grocery establishment in Southington the night before.

The Tops Marketplace at 887 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike in Southington burned Sunday night. Flames were visible through the roof and the fire "was active throughout the building" when firefighters arrived, officials said on Twitter.

The roof eventually collapsed, officials said.

Representatives from both the local and state fire marshals offices were at the scene into Monday afternoon trying to determine a cause, fire officials said.

In a message on Facebook, the owners of Tops Marketplace is with John Salerno and Janalynne Salerno Gius, say, "Everyone made it out safely. No one was injured. Our family is devastated. This has been a family business for over 30 years. It is as if we lost a member of our family. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire and at some point, fencing will be placed around the property for safety reasons."

From Emily Salerno Gould, "Thank you for the outpouring of love and prayers. I promise to share them with my Dad and Betsy. They are helpful and appreciated. It is humbling to read the support in our community. I know people are curious. We don’t know how the fire started at this time. Thank goodness no one was hurt and thank you to the fire departments and police department for keeping everyone safe and putting the fire out. It is shocking and devastating. 39 years. 39 years of pure heart. I am so proud of my Dad, Mom, and Betsy."

From Janalynne Salerno Gius, "I have such great memories and that’s what I want to remember."

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