Fire Destroys Fair Lawn Strip Mall, Zadies Bakery Destroyed

An overnight blaze ravaged a strip mall on Fair Lawn Avenue at Chandler Drive, Fair Lawn, resulting in extensive damage and the destruction of multiple stores, including the beloved Zadies Bakery.

The fire, which originated in the Green Dragon restaurant, left no injuries but raised questions about the cause, currently under investigation.

Zadies Bakery, a community favorite, had only recently recovered from a 2019 incident where a car crashed through its front window.

The bakery’s owner expressed relief that no staff were present during the fire and is now assessing the aftermath.

The fire chief confirmed the absence of injuries, emphasizing the safety of the overnight staff.

This incident has evoked memories of other recent fires, such as the house fire in Kenilworth, which similarly involved extensive smoke and firefighting efforts.

Though details about injuries or displacement in Kenilworth remain unclear, the common thread of destruction highlights the ongoing challenges faced by local communities in dealing with such disasters.

In the wake of the Fair Lawn fire, emergency responders have been commended for their swift action in containing the blaze.

However, the loss of Zadies Bakery and other businesses underscores the long road to recovery for the affected owners and the community.