An early morning fire in Valley Stream destroyed a row of businesses on Rockaway Avenue.

Fire officials say seven businesses were affected, ranging from minor damage to a complete loss. Fire officials say the fire quickly spread to the adjacent businesses because it was in the cockloft – an area above the celling and below the roof.

"The entire building shares [the cockloft] so once the fire is in there, it spreads rapidly to the entire building that’s what led to a lot of extensive damage," said Chief Patrick Scanlon, of the Valley Stream Fire Department.

Mariola Skoczek's mother owned the Polish American Deli that was destroyed by the fire.

"Everyone knew her. She was very into this. This was her everything," said Skoczek.

Officials say three firefighters were transported to a hospital for minor injuries. Officials do not believe the fire is suspicious. However, the cause remains under investigation.