New Jersey

Massive Fire Destroys Former Tavern in Millville, New Jersey

Thick smoke and flames created a chaotic scene in Millville, New Jersey Saturday night as a massive fire destroyed a former tavern.

The fire started at a three-story building on the 500 block of S. 2nd Street. The building was once home to the Gil Bear's Tavern. Residents told NBC10 the mix of smoke and fire looked like a volcano.

Millville Tavern Fire

"The next thing you know it just started smoking up real bad, all white and then black and then you started seeing the flames," said Lettuica Holloway.

Witnesses reported seeing small explosions during the blaze. At one point the entire third floor of the building collapsed on responding firefighters though they were able to get out. Firefighters issued a Mayday call after the collapse. At the peak of the fire, crews had to set up defensive positions around the block to stop the flames from spreading to any neighboring homes.

"We had the building surrounded when the collapse took place," said a fire official. "We immediately stopped all fire suppression operations and accounted for all our members and made sure they were accounted for and safe." 

By the time the flames were brought under control, the building was completely destroyed.

Officials told NBC10 one person was inside the building during the fire but he or she managed to escape. No one was seriously hurt during the blaze.

Crews continued to work to suppress the smoke late Saturday night. Once all the smoke is gone they will begin to investigate the cause of the fire.

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