Ocean Casino Resort suspended all gaming operations Monday after a small fire triggered a pipe burst that caused water damage throughout the property, including a ceiling collapse in the lobby.
No injuries were reported, according to the Atlantic City Fire Department.
Crews responded to the casino at approximately 5:30 a.m. Monday after receiving reports of a fire in a linen room on the ground level, the department said in a statement. Firefighters contained and extinguished the blaze, but during suppression efforts, a pipe burst, releasing significant water flow through multiple parts of the building.
The water intrusion caused a portion of the lobby ceiling to collapse and affected elevator shafts and back-of-house hallways, officials said. The damage also compromised the building’s gaming support systems, according to a resort spokesperson.
As a result, all gambling operations — including slot machines, table games and sports betting — were suspended for the day. A $30,000 slot tournament scheduled from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday was canceled.
“We know this is an inconvenience for our guests, and we appreciate their patience as we work to address the situation,” the resort said in a social media post. Avila Lounge was relocated to TopGolf for the day.
The hotel, restaurants, pools and other amenities remained open, though the hotel was operating at limited capacity, the spokesperson said.
Guests expressed disappointment but remained hopeful for a swift recovery.
“I was trying to play the free slot tournament here at Ocean. I’m sad for Ocean, you know. It’s a nice place. I hope things get up and running soon,” said Crystal, an Atlantic City resident.
Luke, visiting from Philadelphia, took the disruption in stride. “They’re not doing me a favor,” he said with a smile. “I can tell you right now, I’m hot. I’m going to win. They know it, that’s why it’s flooded. I’m telling you, it’s the only thing that matters, trust me. I’m on a heater.”
Firefighters completed water control operations and turned the scene over to resort facilities staff, officials said. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The resort expects casino operations to resume Tuesday, a spokesperson said late Monday.
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