Route 9 game room fire damages longtime Freehold business ‘The Game Room’
Firefighters battled a late-night blaze at a well-known family-owned recreation store along Route 9.
Freehold, NJ – A fire broke out late Sunday night at The Game Room, a longtime Route 9 business specializing in home recreation products, prompting a large emergency response and heavy fire conditions upon arrival.
Crews were dispatched around 9:15 p.m. to 3548 Route 9 South, where firefighters encountered heavy smoke and a working fire at the commercial building. The incident quickly escalated, bringing multiple units to the scene under a box alarm assignment.
The Game Room, a family-owned retailer operating since 1974, is known for selling and installing pool tables, arcade machines, pinball games, darts, and other home entertainment equipment.
Key Points
- Fire reported around 9:15 p.m. at The Game Room on Route 9 in Freehold
- Crews encountered heavy smoke and declared a working fire on arrival
- Business confirms severe damage; Freehold location closed until further notice
Heavy fire conditions prompt multi-unit response
Firefighters stretched four hand lines into the structure while two truck companies operated on scene. Crews worked both inside the building and on the roof, where ventilation efforts were underway to release heat and smoke.
A ladder service operation was established, and additional safety measures were taken, including the request for a second rapid intervention team (RIT), as conditions remained active during suppression efforts.
Officials reported that the bulk of the fire was knocked down after coordinated operations, though crews remained on scene addressing hotspots and securing the structure.
Business confirms damage, no injuries reported
In a statement released after the fire, The Game Room Store confirmed the extent of the damage and said no injuries were reported.
“Over the weekend, our Freehold location was severely damaged by a fire. We’re incredibly grateful that no one was hurt. Right now, our focus is on supporting our team, assessing the situation, and figuring out the next steps,” the business said.
The company added that its Freehold location will remain closed until further notice, while other locations continue operating.
“We’ve been part of this community for over 25 years, and moments like this remind us how much that support means. We appreciate the messages, calls, and patience as we work through this,” the statement continued.
Investigation underway at longtime Route 9 business
No immediate information has been released regarding the cause of the fire. The extent of damage to the building and its inventory remains under evaluation.
Fire officials are expected to continue investigating as crews complete overhaul operations at the site.
