Fire destroys Salvation Army thrift store in Union City

NEW JERSEY - A five-alarm fire destroyed a Salvation Army thrift store location in Union City, New Jersey on Thursday night. 

Firefighters told FOX 5 NY that the building, located on John F. Kennedy Boulevard caught fire at around 6:15 p.m., shortly after it closed.

More than four hours later, firefighters were still putting out flames that were likely driven by highly combustible items like furniture and clothes. 

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the chief says it seems it was fed by gas. Officials are also investigating reports that the store had a new heating system recently installed. 

Get breaking news alerts in the free FOX5NY News app!  |  Sign up for FOX 5 email newsletters

The fire caused exterior damage to seven other buildings nearby, which were briefly evacuated. 

Fire officials say the building will likely be demolished.