Photos/Story by James Tompkins

Cold Spring, Putnam County, N.Y. -- On Wednesday February 6th, 2002 a raging fire destroyed a local Grand Union Supermarket.

Firefighters were called to the store in a small strip mall at approximately 22:15 after cleaners noticed smoke and fire above ceiling.

When firefighters arrived on scene an interior attack was attempted but water problems and intense fire forced firefighters to back out. Firefighters attempting to ventilate were also forced to stop.

Mutual aid from neighboring Dutchess County was utilized bringing 3 truck companies and tankers to the scene.

Lack of water from small water mains forced firefighters to start a tanker relay. Water was then drafted from the Hudson River and shuttled a mile to the scene.

The fire spread across the roof to the post office next door but firefighters were able to minimize the damage to the roof with smoke and water damage to the inside.

The fire is being investigated by the Putnam County Fire Investigation Division but was reported as not suspicious.

The Cold Spring Fire Department was assisted by the North Highlands, Garrison, Continental Village and Philipstown Ambulance from Putnam County, Village of Fishkill, Rombout, Beacon, Chelsea, Hughsonville and Dutchess Junction from Dutchess County. Fort Montgomery from Orange County.