Overnight Fire Displaces Family In Gloucester Twp.

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — A fire burned through a mixed-used building, displacing a family of five early Wednesday morning in Blackwood.

Authorities were dispatched at about 1 a.m. as heavy smoke rose from the building, which includes an upstairs apartment that was occupied. Everyone was quickly evacuated, with no reported injuries, police said.

Firefighters contained the blaze to a first-floor business, although it wasn't immediately clear which one.

The first floor of the building contains several businesses, while the second floor is residential. The displaced family that lives upstairs will stay with relatives, police said.

The fire doesn't appear suspicious but will remain under investigation by Blackwood Fire Department Station 84's fire marshal.

Officials closed a portion of the Black Horse Pike for several hours during the incident.

Township police said the following: "This is a reminder to check you fire suppression systems to include alerts and audible alarm systems to ensure they are operational. Smoke alarms are a key part of any fire escape plan. When there is smoke, there is fire which can spread quickly. Working smoke alarms give you early warning, so you can get outside quickly."

Gloucester Township Squad 88, Blackwood Fire Department, Chews Landing Fire Department, Lambs Terrace Fire Department, Blenheim Fire Co. and the Pine Hill Fire Department controlled the blaze. Inspira BLS and Virtua ALS also assisted at the scene.