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Massive Fire Destroys Miami Market

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Firefighters in Miami were on the scene of a massive fire that destroyed a neighborhood market Thursday afternoon.

Firefighters responded to the "Five Sons Market" at 6943 NW 15 Avenue shortly before 2:00 p.m., according to Miami Fire Department's public information officer.

Flames could be seen shooting from the top of the building.

CLICK HERE To Watch Oralia Ortega's Report 

Firefighters were pulled back just before part of the roof collapsed.  "They saw that the fire spread rather quickly throughout the store, making its way to the roof causing it to become unstable," said Lt. Ignatius Carroll with Miami Fire Rescue.

Market Fire
Photo by: Oralia Ortega/CBS4

Market manager William Asad said he was alone in the store when he saw smoke.  "I came out back to grab the other fire extinguisher to do it.  The flame was up higher and higher," he said.

Click here to view pictures of the firefighters in action as they battled the blaze. 

The owner of the store could only watch as the place she bought three decades ago go up in flames.  "Thirty years ago when I didn't have a dime to buy groceries, I was proud of it," she said.  "I don't have a dime to rebuild nothing," the owner said.  "I couldn't afford insurance."

Community members said they are sad the place is gone.  "It's a loss. Because when you're out of something it's right there," said Melody Brooks.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

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