A blaze erupted at Peanut World on the Atlantic City Boardwalk at about 4 p.m. on Friday, December 5, sending thick smoke up the promenade and forcing firefighters to breach neighboring shops. The fire quickly spread to at least two other businesses, prompting a two‑alarm response from the Atlantic City Fire Department. No injuries were reported as all affected stores were closed at the time of the incident.
Fire Incident
The fire began in the Peanut World store, a specialty shop located on Martin Luther King Boulevard, the main thoroughfare of the boardwalk. Firefighters arrived to find the blaze already advancing toward adjacent storefronts. They forced their way into the connected stores to combat the spread of flames.
Response and Impact
The incident was classified as a two‑alarm blaze, indicating a significant but contained fire. Dozens of firefighters worked in full gear to suppress the flames and prevent further damage. The smoke billowed onto the boardwalk, creating a visible plume that could be seen from surrounding areas.
Photos sent to NBC10 by the fire department show the smoke emerging from the building while responders entered the scene. The images capture firefighters in full protective equipment as they navigate the damaged structure. The visual evidence underscores the intensity of the emergency.
All impacted stores were closed when the fire occurred, which helped to minimize potential injuries. The Atlantic City Fire Department confirmed that there were no reported injuries among residents, patrons, or emergency personnel. The quick closure of the businesses likely contributed to the absence of casualties.
Investigation
The Atlantic City Fire Department has launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze. Investigators are examining the initial point of ignition and the spread to nearby shops. The investigation will determine whether any building codes or safety protocols were violated.
A spokesperson for the Atlantic City Fire Department provided updates to the media, detailing the firefighting efforts and the status of the investigation. The spokesperson emphasized the department’s commitment to public safety and transparency during the incident.
Community Reaction
The fire’s impact on the boardwalk’s commercial activity remains to be seen. Local businesses that were affected may face downtime for repairs and inspections. The incident highlights the vulnerability of closely spaced storefronts on the boardwalk.
Community members witnessed the smoke plume and the firefighters’ efforts to contain the blaze. Some residents expressed relief that no injuries were reported, while others called for increased safety measures on the boardwalk.
Key Takeaways
- A two‑alarm fire erupted at Peanut World on December 5, spreading to adjacent businesses.
- Firefighters responded promptly, forced entry into connected stores, and suppressed the blaze with no injuries reported.
- The incident is currently under investigation by the Atlantic City Fire Department.
The Atlantic City Fire Department will continue to monitor the site as part of the ongoing investigation. Officials have urged anyone with information about the fire’s origin to come forward. The department’s findings will inform future fire prevention strategies.
In summary, a two‑alarm fire erupted at Peanut World on December 5, spreading to adjacent businesses on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Firefighters responded promptly, forced entry into connected stores, and suppressed the blaze with no injuries reported. The incident is currently under investigation by the Atlantic City Fire Department.
