Universal Supply Fire Probe Continues

Monday, June 23 2008 @ 08:40 pm EDT

Contributed by: CBrining

From the Hammonton News On-Line Published: Wednesday, June 18, 2008

By BEN MERITT Staff Writer

HAMMONTON -- An investigation is continuing into the cause of a fire late last month that destroyed the Universal Supply Kitchen Showroom and warehouse on the White Horse Pike here.

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Hammonton Fire Chief Michael Ruberton said Monday that "the cause is still under investigation."

The fire was reported about 11:45 p.m. May 30, and flames were observed shooting through the roof when firefighters arrived minutes later.

The blaze was eventually brought under control about four hours later, but not until the kitchen showroom was destroyed.

Several area fire companies assisted both Hammonton Fire Department companies in battling the fire and assisting at the scene the following day.

Despite the severity of the blaze, many supplies that were stored at the facility, is located near the pike's intersection with Egg Harbor Road, were saved.

"The fire department did an excellent job of minimizing the product damage. Our framing lumber, engineered wood and all other products were not affected. Damaged material is being replaced immediately and business will continue as usual," Universal officials said in a statement on their company's website.

In the meantime, Universal has set up a temporary kitchen selection center at its corporate facility, a half mile away at 582 S. Egg Harbor Road.

According to Universal marketing director Mike Bravakis, plans are in the works to rebuild of the facility.