Lightning strike possible cause of Franklin Township strip mall fire as businesses destroyed
Flames quickly engulfed the building as firefighters responded and worked to bring the fire under control.
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A lightning strike is now being investigated as a possible cause of a fire that destroyed multiple businesses in Franklin Township.
The blaze broke out late Sunday night at a strip mall on Hamilton Street, engulfing several stores.
News 12 drone video shows extensive damage, with large portions of the building destroyed.
The Tropical Food Market and a 99 Cent Plus store were heavily damaged, with part of the structure completely collapsing.
News 12 Meteorologist Mike Rizzo confirmed a lightning strike was recorded at the exact location around 11:19 p.m., just before the fire was reported.
Officials say the possibility that the fire was sparked by lightning is now part of the investigation, though the official cause has not yet been determined.
Firefighters say multiple crews responded, including mutual aid companies, to battle the intense flames and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby businesses.
A laundromat and a tattoo parlor in the strip mall were saved, thanks in part to a firewall separating the units.
Officials also noted propane tanks at the scene added to the challenges crews faced.
Despite the heavy damage, no injuries have been reported.
Hamilton Street has since reopened following the response.
