Authorities are investigating a fire that broke out at the Acme grocery store located in The Grove Shopping Center, 100 Grove Lane, Newark, on Sunday night.
The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office, led by Chief Deputy Robert Fox, began an investigation into the origin and cause of the fire that caused heavy damage.
The Aetna Hose, Hook, and Ladder Company of Newark responded to the emergency call shortly before 10:45 PM, finding heavy smoke and an active fire upon their arrival. The fire department’s efforts were supported by the store’s sprinkler system, which had activated and helped contain the fire until additional firefighting units arrived. Mutual aid companies were also summoned to assist with extinguishing the flames and ventilating the structure said Fox.
No injuries have been reported in the incident. However, the fire caused fire and smoke damage with estimated losses amounting to $250,000.
“Our ACME store located in The Grove Shopping Center…We are working closely with the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office and Newark Police… The store reopened for business late this morning after getting the go ahead from the Delaware Board of Health.” said Dana Ward, regional spokeswoman for ACME.
Initial reports that suggested that juveniles might have intentionally started the fire were not addressed in the official statement from the Fire Marshal’s office.