Demolition work has begun on the imposing Paterson Armory after a massive fire badly damaged the structure.

Firefighters were still on the scene Thursday morning spraying water on hot spots. The fire started Monday night on Market Street.

The armory was built in 1896 and was used for various wars in the 20th century. Afterward, it had various other uses until finally being abandoned in 1990.

"Talk to the people in the neighborhood. What they say is 'I remember when the tanks were here and we came here for boxing matches and presidential stumping grounds. It has a rich history, so from that point of view it's so sad," says Paterson Fire Chief Michael Postorino.

Officials say asbestos is complicating the armory's demolition. Demolition industry workers say the asbestos-contaminated sections will need to be kept wet and an air monitor will need to be set up.

Officials say it will be hard to find the cause of the fire since inspectors are unable to get to the basement where it started.