Lawrence stores smoked out due to electrical fire

Several stores along Central Avenue in Lawrence endured a smoky condition due to an electrical fire at a restaurant at 7:09 a.m. on July 20, according to officials at the scene.

The Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department responded to a fire at 292 Central Ave. Smoke was found in the KNS Glatt Farm fruit store at that location.

Firefighters at the scene determined that the smoke originated from the basement of Traditions restaurant at 302 Central Ave.

“The electrical service was compromised and fire started in the main panel box,” said LCFD Chief Joseph Sperber. “LIPA (Long Island Power Authority) was called to cut power to the building.”

The fire was contained and damage was limited to the area where the blaze began. “Our store is very good and we are open,” said Rafael Cambo, a KNS employee said.

Due to the fire and smoke, Central Avenue was closed to traffic from Rockaway Turnpike to William Street, along with Rockaway Turnpike at the intersection of Central Avenue.

The Hewlett and Inwood fire departments assisted at the scene.