Lightning Strike Sparks Fire That Rips Through Strip Mall In Franklin Township, Police Say

FRANKLIN, NJ — A lightning strike sparked a four-alarm fire that ripped through a strip mall overnight in Franklin Township.

"The Franklin Township Fire Prevention Department has determined that the fire was accidental in nature, the result of a lightning strike associated with severe weather that moved through the area on the night of June 14," said police on Monday.

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On Sunday, at around 11:49 p.m., Franklin Township police officers were called to a commercial fire in the Super Tropical Foodmarket at 720 Hamilton St.

Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze. However, the entire strip mall was impacted by the fire, said Public Safety Director Lloyd Fredericks.

No injuries were reported.

Hamilton Street was closed between Matilda Avenue and Baier Avenue until around 6:40 a.m. on Monday.

See video of the fire by Somerset County Fire Buff by clicking here.

"Thanks to the swift and coordinated response of our firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, and mutual aid partners, this fire was brought under control without any reported injuries," said Public Safety Director Lloyd Fredericks. "This incident highlights the dedication of the men and women who serve our community. We appreciate the efforts of all the responding agencies."

Multiple agencies responded including: Community Fire Company, East Franklin Fire Department, Elizabeth Ave Fire Company, Middlebush Fire Department, Somerset Fire and Rescue, Griggstown Fire Company, Franklin Park Fire Department, Millstone Valley Fire Department, New Brunswick Fire Department, North Brunswick Fire Department, South Bound Brook Fire Department, Bound Brook Fire Company, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital EMS, Bradley Gardens EMS, Somerset County Office of Emergency Management, Somerset County Hazmat team,
Somerset County department of public works, Franklin Township department of public works, Franklin Township building department, and PSE&G.

Additionally, Hillsborough, New Market, and Warren Fire Departments provided station coverage.

The Franklin Township Fire Prevention Department is currently investigating the cause of the fire.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Director of Fire Prevention, John Hauss, at 732-873-2500 extension 6305.

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