Casino Fire at Historic Sweetwater Casino

Firefighters were battling a fire at the Sweetwater Casino restaurant near Hammonton, N.J., it was reported this morning. Clouds of smoke coming from the fire could be seen for miles, after firefighters rushed to the Sweetwater Casino in the early hours to find the restaurant and banquet hall engulfed by the blaze. Despite the fact that the Sweetwater Casino is on the banks of the Mullica River, fire crews reportedly struggled to get enough water onto the burning pine structure. Luckily the Sweetwater Marina and several fuel tanks nearby were untouched by the fire. Known for its seafood and views of spectacular sunsets from its riverside deck, the sprawling Sweetwater complex is a 'casino' in name only and does not offer gambling. The restaurant - built in the 1920s - is a favorite oasis for locals and for travelers headed to the gaming palaces of Atlantic City.