A fast-moving fire ripped through a row of Rockaway Avenue businesses in Valley Stream on Easter Sunday, gutting a family-owned barbershop and forcing frantic evacuations from the apartments above. Crews were called around 5:30 p.m., arriving to find flames racing from a first-floor storefront into neighboring shops and up into residential units. Three people, including a firefighter, suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.
Barbershop Wiped Out, Nearby Stores Left Charred And Smoky
The fire started inside Mr. D Cut Barber Shop, a family-run spot that had been a staple on the block for roughly 15 years, according to CBS New York. The Valley Stream Fire Department said crews arrived to heavy fire on the first floor as flames pushed into the apartments above and into an adjoining pizzeria and an upholstery shop. Business owners are now walking through the wreckage, comparing notes with the landlord and insurance companies on what comes next.
"It's very, very hard," Jesenia Garcia, the barber's wife, told CBS New York, adding that a cleaning crew smelled smoke and managed to get out in time. "All we ask is for your prayers," she said as firefighters continued to soak the building.
Roughly 100 Firefighters Knock Down Blaze, Red Cross Steps In
About 100 firefighters from several departments responded and brought the blaze under control in roughly 45 minutes, while the American Red Cross began helping displaced families, ABC7 New York reports. Officials told the outlet that the Nassau County fire marshal later ruled the fire electrical in nature after investigators found faulty surge plugs in the back of the shop.
Injuries, Missing Smoke Alarms And Overnight Board-Ups
News 12 reports that two civilians and a fire chief were treated for smoke inhalation and that fire officials said the building did not have working smoke detectors. According to the outlet, five businesses were impacted, and by Sunday night crews were boarding up storefronts and apartments to secure the property.
Owners Stare Down Total Loss As Investigators Dig In
Owners have described the damage as a total loss and say they will be working with the landlord, utility workers and insurers to sort out repairs and restore power, according to ABC7 New York. Nassau County fire marshal investigators remain on the case while municipal inspectors and insurance adjusters begin formal reviews of structural conditions and code issues.
Regulars And Neighbors Rally Around Block In Shock
Longtime customers and nearby residents stopped by to offer condolences and encouragement as owners began the slow work of figuring out how to rebuild, News 12 reported. Local agencies are coordinating short-term relief for families pushed out by the fire while investigators finish their work and the neighborhood waits to see what can be saved.
