Firefighters battled blaze at shopping plaza in Fall River as damage tops $1.5 million

Firefighters in Fall River battled smoke and flames for several hours Monday evening as a shopping plaza sustained serious damage.

A call came in just after 9:00 p.m. for smoke showing at 350 Mariano Bishop Boulevard.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames on the roof at Burns Power Tools and Subway. The plaza also houses Fall River Vision, Tru-Med Medical Office, Compliments Hair Salon, and Cozy Kettle Restaurant.

According to Fire Chief Roger St. Martin, the fire went to 5 alarms with Somerset, Swansea and Tiverton covering the Fall River Fire stations. The fire was determined under control at approximately 2:30 this morning.

District Chief Bacon from Car 2 was the Incident commander, and he was assisted by District Chief Poissant.

Crews remained on scene throughout the night. This morning, crews are still there chasing hot spots in the building.

St. Martin stated that there were no injuries reported to him.

Burns Power Tools suffered the most loss inventory and tools of over $1-1.5 million plus severe damage to the building and other contents. Subway sustained smoke and water damage. Kozy Kettle Restaurant sustained fire, smoke, and water damage and the hair salon sustained smoke and water damage within the building. There was also smoke damage in a nearby building.

The Building Department is evaluating the building.

According to St. Martin, the fire brought several challenges.

“Challenges included large amount of stock in the building. Localized collapse throughout the building was a challenge as well. The proximity to the exposed building which was connected at the front and only 4 feet parallel separating the buildings for approximately 100 feet. Lithium-ion batteries which power cordless tools when damaged can reignite, we are addressing this issue.”

On their social media, Burns Power Tools stated that their storefront is currently closed, and they will be reopened for in-store purchases in the near future.

Also, during the fire, there was a car fire on Fourth Street with 3 vehicles damaged.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.