The fire that destroyed three businesses across from the Orange Park Mall last Wednesday night began in a drying unit of the restaurant, according to the state Fire Marshal's Office.
Venezia's Italian Restaurant, Miracle Ear and Play Station Child Care were destroyed in the fire, which also damaged Ladies Fitness -- all located in a strip mall on 1871 Wells Road.
Several Clay County fire companies and two from Jacksonville Fire-Rescue battled the fire. No one was injured.
Investigators said the fire began in a dryer in the clean-up area inside Venezia's. No one was in the building when the fire was reported just after 11 p.m. The last employee left the restaurant at 10 p.m.
The blaze cuased an estimated $1 million in damage to the property and contents of the businesses.
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- December 8, 2005: Fire Destroys Restaurant, Stores Across From Orange Park Mall
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