Massive overnight fire engulfs Jewish community center in Rutherford
Multiple collapses were reported as the fire spread.
More Stories
Firefighters from multiple towns in North Jersey battled a large fire that destroyed a Jewish community center in Rutherford this morning.
The fire broke out just before 3 a.m. at 185 Montross Ave. The building is home to Temple Beth El which houses the Jewish Community Center of the Meadowlands. Flames and smoke could be seen from other towns as the fire continued to spread.
Dozens of fire crews responded to help Rutherford firefighters fight the fire, including East Rutherford, Passaic, Moonachie and Saddle Brook, among others.
The borough of Rutherford posted a notice on Facebook around 3:50 a.m. saying there is a "large structure fire currently being fought at the corner of Montross and Fairview Aves. Residents in the immediate vicinity are advised to be on the lookout for embers falling in their property and call 911 immediately if a fire starts."
The borough said all emergency services were at the scene and advised residents to avoid the area.
The fire was concentrated in the old Victorian home that was part of the complex and housed the rabbi and his family. A total of six people escaped the flames unharmed.
News 12 Drone Video
This isn’t the first time the center has been the scene of a fire. In 2012, two people were arrested for firebombing the synagogue and causing extensive damage. The cause of today's is unknown at this time.
RELATED:
Rutherford synagogue firebombing suspect pleads not guilty
Police: Teen charged in synagogue firebombings
Detectives from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and arson investigators from the Bergen County Arson Task Force have responded to the scene and have initiated a joint investigation with the Rutherford police and fire departments.
