VIDEO: A row of stores went up in flames in Merrick early Thursday morning. The fire started in the Fuji Seoul restaurant on Merrick Avenue just after midnight. Flames spread to several other businesses. Firefighters battled heavy flames through the roof, and homes in the vicinity were evacuated as a precaution. Five businesses were damaged. One firefighter was taken to Nassau University Medical Center to be treated for a minor injury. Detectives have determined the fire was not intentionally set. Merrick Avenue was closed at Miller Place as fire department activity continued.