(Mt. Vernon-WABC, July 16, 2004) -- It's a devastating sight in Mt. Vernon. An entire block of buildings sit in ruins after a massive fire erupted there on Thursday.
The fire quickly spread through a row of apartments and businesses, leaving dozens of people without a place to live or work.
Michelle Charlesworth reports.
Four families are now without homes, and the business people who were affected still haven't had it sink in.
The flames that burned through four businesses in nine buildings, with smoke that could be seen in the Bronx, left nothing untouched. And on Friday people came to see what, if anything, could be salvaged.
For Mike Colon, who's father owned a motorcycle shop, this is heartbreaking.
Mike Colon, Fire Victim: "My pop, Eddie Reid, was a legend in this area, over 40 years. This place was his heart and soul. He had a heart attack three weeks ago and died. And now this. It's just a nightmare."
This is also a tough blow for Mt. Vernon. Luiggi Dinard has run his autobody business across the street from where the fire struck for 28 years.
Michelle Charlesworth: "What about the fact that this town struggles with businesses sticking around, and working out?" Luiggi Dinard, Eyewitness: "Ok. The way I see our area, the way our people are living today -- there's no money."
He just hopes his neighbors will rebuild, and is thankful no one was hurt.
We're still waiting to hear what caused the fire.
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