By: Jeff Sommes
Firefighters from across Central New Jersey battled a massive four-alarm fire that tore through a commercial building in Franklin Township overnight, causing extensive damage and drawing dozens of mutual aid companies to the scene.
The fire broke out at a commercial property on Hamilton Street and quickly escalated as flames spread throughout the structure.
Responding crews encountered heavy fire conditions, including flames extending through the roof of the building.
Fire officials established collapse zones around portions of the structure as conditions deteriorated. Multiple ladder pipes, master streams, and handlines were placed into operation in an effort to contain the blaze.
During firefighting operations, crews reported hazardous conditions that included helium tanks inside one of the businesses and electrical transformers arcing behind the building.
Utility crews were requested to the scene to address the electrical hazards.
The intensity of the fire prompted commanders to strike a fourth alarm and request additional resources from surrounding communities.
Rehab units were also brought in to assist firefighters operating in challenging conditions.
No immediate reports of civilian or firefighter injuries were released.
The extent of the damage is expected to be significant, and several businesses appear to have been impacted by the fire.
The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
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