Workers reportedly tried to extinguish the blaze, but it was out of control.
FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP - The Tuesday night fire that destroyed JB's Diner on Monmouth Road reportedly started in the ceiling and was likely an accident.
The fire investigation remained under investigation on Wednesday, however, Monmouth County Fire Marshal Kevin Stout told The Asbury Park Press that signs indicated at that point that there was an accidental ignition in a ceiling and a wall near the broiler.
"Workers were present, they attempted to extinguish the fire at the same time as they called the fire department, but it was already out of control at that point," Stout told the newspaper, adding everything in the restaurant was properly maintained, it had all of its required fire extinguishers and all of its inspections were up to date.
The fire broke out in the popular 50's themed diner some time at around 8 p.m., causing significant damage to the restaurant and causing Route 537 (Monmouth Road) to be closed for an extended period of time.
Firefighters were eventually able to extinguish the blaze some time after 9 p.m.
On Wednesday morning, the charred interior of the diner was visible through its open doors as well as holes its roof caused by the flames
No one was injured in the blaze.
Rob Spahr may be reached at rspahr@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TheRobSpahr. Find NJ.com on Facebook.