OCEAN CITY, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — A four-alarm fire broke out on the boardwalk in Ocean City, New Jersey Saturday morning, tearing through an iconic pirate-themed amusement pier and damaging several other businesses.
The fire erupted around 8 a.m. at Playland's Castaway Cove, between 9th and 10th streets. Thick black smoke billowed as crews arrived to battle the blaze.
No injuries were reported, but the arcade at Castaway Cove and its giant pirate ship atop the building were destroyed. The remnants of the two masts, as well as scattered boards, are what remain of what was once a boardwalk landmark.
"It had cannons and it used to shoot blanks over classical music to get the kids' attention," described resident Fred Walker.
Many residents were thankful crews were able to contain the fire on the pier.
"I think the firemen did a great job of curtailing it, because we had very high winds," said Bonnie.
Fortunately, the amusement rides behind the arcade, such as the ferris wheel and roller coaster, remained intact.
For many, the pier was a place that held fond childhood memories.
"That's where I went all the time as a kid," recalled Caroline Cooley. "So it’s kind of sad to see it, but I’m glad to see that the rides don’t look they were damaged. It’s just the arcade part, which hopefully they can repair."
Several other businesses were also damaged, including pizza places and other eateries.
"Jane's son's place is gone," said Walker, referring to a hamburger restaurant owned by their neighbor's son.
In a statement on social media, Playland's owners thanked first responders for their efforts and vowed to rebuild in time for a spring re-opening.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.