MIDDLETOWN – Approximately 60 firefighters from four Middletown fire companies turned out early Monday morning to put out a fire in the Up in Smoke Cigar Lounge that was reported by Middletown police officers on routine patrol.
Fire Department Public Information Officer John Isaksen reported police called in the blaze at 12:30 a.m. Jan. 18 when they noticed the working structure fire. Volunteers from Belford Independent, Belford Engine, Port Monmouth and Community fire companies responded, under the command of Department Chief Rick Hibell. They reported they had the fire under control within 20 minutes.
Second Assistant Fire Ryan Clarke was among the first of the officers on the scene at the unoccupied commercial structure at 900 Main St.
Firefighters began fighting the blaze with a 2 ½ inch hose line through the front door; they cut holes in the roof to vent heat and toxic smoke from the structure.
Community Fire Company stood by as a Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) ready to provide assistance to firefighters that may become trapped or injured while performing interior firefighting duties. According to officials, there was smoke and water damage throughout the building but no reports any of the inventory went up in smoke.
Middletown Township Fire Department’s Air Support and Fire Police units, as well as township EMS units stood by during the incident. No injuries were reported.
The fire is being investigated by the Middletown Township Fire Prevention office.
Pictures Courtesy of MTFD Photographer Laurie Kegley.
