Coffee Shop, House Fires Spark In Bernardsville

BERNARDSVILLE, NJ — Wednesday was a busy day for emergency responders in Bernardsville.

At around 1:21 p.m., the Bernardsville Police Department went to Olcott Square on the report of an activated fire alarm coming from The Coffee Shop.

Officers saw smoke coming from the back of the business near the basement area, said Bernardsville Police Captain Dan Buttel.

The Bernardsville Fire Department came and extinguished the fire. All nearby businesses were evacuated until the scene was deemed safe.

The Bernardsville Fire Official also responded and the investigation is ongoing.

The Coffee Shop at 23 Olcott Square said on Wednesday, "Sorry for the inconvienence, but due to a external electric meter issue, we will be closed until further notice."

Later on Wednesday at 4:47 p.m., the Bernardsville Police Department went to Mt. Airy Road on the report of a structure fire.

Officers saw smoke coming from the front of the home and confirmed no one was inside and all pets had been removed, said Buttel.

Officers then used fire extinguishers to mitigate the spread of the fire until the Bernardsville Fire Department arrived, said Buttel.

A preliminary investigation found that the fire may have been started by residual embers from a fireplace.

The homeowner was home at the time of the fire and did not report any injuries to police.

Fire officials responded and the investigation is ongoing.

The Bernardsville Fire Co. No. 1 & First Aid Squad has had a fully volunteer-supported fire department and first aid squad since 1897. It relies on donations and volunteers to keep serving the community. For more information on how to donate or join visit bernardsvillefire.org.

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