Electrical malfunction at Montgomery Mall

Shopping center closed for more than two hours for emergency response Tuesday

Shopping center is evacuated for hours as emergency crews search for the elusive cause of the problem.

MONTGOMERY TWP. >> An electrical malfunction at the Montgomery Mall Tuesday morning knocked out power and forced the evacuation of employees and customers after strong odors and a “hazy condition” affected parts of the mall, according to fire officials.

Fire crews, medics and other emergency personnel responded in force to the mall shortly after 10 a.m. Tuesday, but firefighters encountered neither flames nor heavy smoke upon entry, Montgomery Township Director of Fire Services Rick Lesniak said at the scene.

The emergency response was immediately upgraded to a second alarm due only to the location of the incident and the potential effect the hot weather could have on firefighters and others, Lesniak explained, but the situation was quickly deemed under control and no injuries were reported.

Fire officials said they could not determine the exact location or cause of the electrical issue, but that mall electricians and PECO personnel were on scene to investigate and make any necessary repairs.

The odors and haze dissipated naturally, without any need for additional ventilation efforts, Lesniak said.

The mall reopened around 12:30 p.m.

MICHAEL GOLDBERG — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Firefighters from the Fire Department of Montgomery Township and neighboring companies respond to an electrical malfunction at Montgomery Mall on Tuesday morning.