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5-Alarm Fire Devastates 12 Bronx Businesses

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Feb 4, 2008 6:55 pm US/Eastern

5-Alarm Fire Devastates 12 Bronx Businesses

NEW YORK (CBS) ― Firefighters in the Bronx had to battle a gigantic inferno Monday morning that threatened dozens of businesses.

The 5-alarm fire broke out just before 8 in a laundromat on the corner of Lydig Ave. and White Plains Rd., in the Pelham Parkway section of the borough.

It spread quickly, engulfing 12 stores and causing a partial building collapse.

"I'm sad. In 21 years this is the worst I ever seen," said pizza shop owner Salvatore Lisanti. "I feel bad for the rest of the people."

Lisanti's pizzeria was spared from the blaze, but neighboring stores including a flower shop, a jewelry store, and a Sleepy's were not so lucky, burned beyond recognition.

"Being out there watching the fire, they did a great job, but they struggled," said Anthony Lisanti.

At least 200 firefighters from 44 units took to the scene, battling stubborn flames and thick smoke filling the skies over Pelham Pkwy. The MTA was forced to suspect service on the 2-trai in both directions for hours.

Surprisingly, no resident had to be evacuated from apartments behind the row of stores, but firefighters used the building to fight the fire from another angle.

"I found out at 8:30 the stores were on fire. I wasn't expecting anything like this," said Gregory Glenn, who owns Adams Jewelers, which was gutted by the fire. He, like many others in the tight-knit community are devastated by the loss, but comforted that no one lost their life.

Five people were hospitalized with smoke inhalation, however, and one was listed in serious condition.

There is no word as to what started the fire.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.