E-bike battery blamed in fire that damaged barbershop in Ramapo
RAMAPO, Rockland County (WABC) -- An e-bike battery is likely to blame for a fire that severely damaged a barbershop in Rockland County.
The blaze broke out at the shop in Spring Valley on Thursday night and witnesses said they heard a popping sound before there was an explosion.
Two people, including a barbershop employee, were slightly hurt.
Exploding lithium-ion batteries continue to pose fire danger as their popularity increases. One worker said he believes the cause was an overloaded extension cord, but either way, the damage was significant.
Business owners used fire extinguishers from their stores to put out the bulk of the flames before firefighters arrived.
Firefighters from the Hillcrest Fire Company, Monsey Fire Department and New City Fire Department worked together to extinguish the fire.
As the investigation continues, the barbershop remains off limits and the Ramapo building inspector said the business lacked the proper certificate of occupancy and proof of fire safety compliance.
ALSO READ | Billy Joel to end record-breaking residency at Madison Square Garden
---------
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
