West Nyack Fire Closes Street, Two Businesses

A fire at a home behind Quilter's Crossing and Petersen Family Chiropractic in West Nyack closed the two buildings and Strawtown Road at approximately 6 p.m. today.

The fire began as a result of work being done on the home. Builders were using a torch to put roofing materials on, which gave way to the blaze.

"The fire has been extinguished, and no one has been hurt," said West Nyack's second assistant chief Brian Ulrich at about 6:30 p.m. today. Ulrich noted the torch burned a hole in the roof, and the fire spread to the home's attic.

Authorities from West Nyack, Central Nyack, Blauvelt, New City, Valley Cottage and Nanuet responded to the blaze—in total, some 55 firemen and EMS were present. Fire, police and EMS vehicles remained at the scene until approximately 7 p.m.

"Everyone did a superb job," Ulrich said. "We were able to contain the fire in 35 minutes."

"It's tough working in this heat with all this equipment," he added.

"I saw men working on the roof [of the businesses]," said Patty Pogewit, who works next door. "They opened a hole in the roof, and smoke poured out."

Pogewit added the workers began yelling and quickly ran inside with a fire extinguisher. Fire and police were soon at the scene, she added.