YOU SAW IT HERE FIRST: A massive rooftop transformer exploded, igniting a two-alarm fire and shutting down all power to the Fashion Center in Paramus before midnight last night.
The explosion and fire just before 11 p.m. cleared a packed Applebee’s restaurant, as well as the nighttime stock crew of Fairway Market off northbound Route 17. All other businesses in the complex were closed at the time.
Paramus police, firefighters, Heavy Rescue and EMS personnel all responded, as did a crew from PSE&G.
It was unclear when power might be restored, although Fairway was believed to be running on an alternate feed.
No injuries were immediately reported.
Paramus police secured all entrances to the shopping complex while emergency crews doused the flames.
Borough health officials were notified due to the extended loss of power anticipated at Applebee’s Restaurant.
Dozens of restaurant patrons waited in their vehicles in the parking lot hoping it would reopen. Police eventually told them it wouldn’t — at least not last night.
STORY / PHOTOS: Boyd A. Loving