5 Businesses Destroyed in Monday Morning Fire

A Toms River shopping center was destroyed in an early morning fire on Monday. The fire broke out around midnight at Ocean National Plaza on Route 9 destroying 5 businesses. Esposito's Pizza, Kokomo Nail Spa, BJ's Cleaner, Wing Far, and Azteca Mexican Restaurant and Bakery experienced significant damage from water, smoke, and flames.

Firefighters from Toms River and neighboring towns fought the flames over several hours. The fire is suspected to have started at BJ's Cleaner.

There were no serious injuries reported.

The fire is currently being investigated and Ocean County prosecutors have deemed the fire as suspicious.