A suspicious second-alarm fire tore through six businesses in the Flushing section of Queens this morning. Eyewitness News is told the wind-whipped blaze broke out inside the buildings on Roosevelt Avenue, near Main Street, just after 2:30 a.m. Heavy flames were seen shooting through the windows and roof of the structures, destroying six businesses.
Firefighters tried to battle the blaze from inside but were forced back. Heavy winds are said to have helped spread the fire. One of the buildings on fire was destroyed and may have to be demolished. Three firefighters were reportedly injured battling the flames. All sustained minor injuries Officials saythe fire is deemed suspicious and the cause is under investigation.
Water used battling the blaze collected on the tracks of the nearby No. 7 subway line, causing service to be temporarily suspended through the area. However, service was restored, but one track is out of service, which will cause delays for the morning commute. The fire is also located near a staging hub for buses and other above-ground transportation.
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Early Morning Fire Damages Flushing Building NY1 News 12/29/2008
Fire Destroys Businesses in Queens MyFoxNY 12/29/2008
Huge Fire Rips Through Pair of Buildings WABC-TV 12/29/2008