The stores were closed and very few people were walking the streets when flames broke out on Gun Hill Road.

Firefighters put out hotspots just after 1:30 A.M. on Thursday. The fire chewed through three businesses—a restaurant, a jewelry store and a beauty supply. They were all destroyed before crews could put out the 2-alarm fire.

“I told you to be careful and that you have to check the kitchen," said Japar, the owner of the beauty supply.

The owner of the beauty supply got emotional as he told NY1 that he had been smelling a gas odor in the days before the fire. He said he warned the building owner about his concerns.

Three firefighters were taken to a nearby hospital with minor injuries. The building’s owner, who did not give his name, was on scene.

"The fire marshal told us it was electrical, so that's what it is," he said.

Con Edison told NY1 they received no reports of a gas leak for the address and that the fire was not gas related.

FDNY officials are still trying to determine the cause of the blaze.

Though the stores are attached to other businesses and a residential building, many were thankful that neighbors were able to get out of their apartments.

"It's devastating," said one witness.

"Oh my God. It breaks my heart," added another.

Businesses in the area were already struggling because of the pandemic. Residents said they were worried the fire will set them back even more and cause a loss of jobs in their community.

"They held on to this business for years and years and years," said one neighbor.