Hawthorne, N.J. – A tire shop located on Goffle Road erupted in a four‑alarm fire on Tuesday afternoon, drawing a large emergency response from the Hawthorne Fire Department and neighboring fire companies. Witnesses reported a towering column of black smoke billowing from the building as firefighters worked to contain the flames.
Emergency response escalates
Initial crews arrived to find the fire already consuming the roof of the structure. As the blaze intensified, the incident was upgraded to a fourth alarm, a designation that brings additional engines, ladder trucks, and specialized units to the scene. Firefighters operated from the exterior of the building, using high‑pressure hoses to knock down the flames while protecting nearby homes and businesses.
Cause still under investigation
At the time of reporting, officials had not determined the origin of the fire. The Hawthorne Police Department is conducting a preliminary investigation, and the fire marshal’s office will review the scene once it is safe to do so. No injuries have been reported, and there are no indications of hazardous material releases from the tire inventory.
Impact on the community
The tire shop, a longtime fixture on Goffle Road, serves drivers from Hawthorne and surrounding towns. Its sudden loss leaves a gap in local automotive services and raises concerns for employees whose jobs may be affected. Residents expressed relief that the fire was contained before spreading to adjacent properties, noting the swift action of the fire crews.
Fire safety reminder
Local officials used the incident as an opportunity to remind business owners and homeowners of basic fire‑prevention measures. Keeping fire extinguishers accessible, maintaining clear exit routes, and ensuring regular electrical inspections can help reduce the risk of similar emergencies. The Hawthorne Fire Department also encourages the public to report any suspicious activity that could lead to a fire.
Looking ahead
Cleanup and demolition of the damaged structure are expected to begin once investigators complete their work. The town will likely assess the site for future use, considering the needs of the community and the importance of maintaining safe commercial spaces along Goffle Road.
Authorities will continue to update residents as more information becomes available about the cause of the fire and the steps being taken to support those impacted.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
