7-alarm fire rips through row of businesses in Passaic

PASSAIC, New Jersey (WABC) -- Utility workers began digging to shore up their lines, because crews were headed to the burned out units to begin removing debris after a huge fire in New Jersey.

The fire broke out at 10:00 p.m. Sunday inside Bruno's Pizzeria in Passaic and spread to at least seven stores and damaged two rear apartments.

The fire along a row of stores on Main Avenue went to seven alarms. Help from across region responded.

"From Carlstadt, Wallington, Paterson, 100 firefighters throughout the night," said Hector Lora, Mayor of Passaic.

It began at night when all the stores, even the pizza shop where it started, were closed.

Fellow store owners have been assessing the damage.

Thanks to firefighters, stores like a clothing shop along the row suffered just minor damage.

"We have water and smoke damage, waiting for insurance company," said Brandon Ra, a store supervisor.

They've got to figure out the cause and figure out if these buildings are structurally sound.

The city is grateful that with such a huge fire they are not counting devastating losses.

"Our number one priority is life. We did immediate evacuations. There were two firefighters hurt and we ask for people's prayers and support," Lora said.

An investigation is underway into the cause of the fire.