By: Tracie Carter
The Franklin Township Fire Prevention Department has determined that a fire that heavily damaged a commercial strip mall late Sunday night was accidental and caused by a lightning strike associated with severe weather that moved through the area.
According to a statement released by Public Safety Director Lloyd Fredericks, Franklin Township police officers were dispatched to a reported commercial fire at 720 Hamilton Street at approximately 11:49 p.m. on June 14.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a working fire at the business complex and requested assistance from responding fire units.
Firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze, but the entire strip mall sustained damage as a result of the fire.
No injuries were reported.
Due to firefighting operations and the subsequent investigation, Hamilton Street was closed between Matilda Avenue and Baier Avenue until approximately 6:40 a.m. Monday.
An investigation conducted by the Franklin Township Fire Prevention Department determined the fire was accidental and originated from a lightning strike during the severe thunderstorms that moved through the area Sunday night.
