Community devastated by Tuesday’s fire in Hillside business district
Over 30 people are without a home, and more than six businesses were affected in the Hillside Business District.
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A fire tore through businesses and homes on the corner of Conklin and Maple avenues in Hillside Tuesday night around 7 p.m.
Over 30 people are without a home, and more than six businesses were affected in the Hillside Business District.
"Wake up in the morning, and you no longer have a business, and that was their way of life," said Eulalia Russell, of Hillside. "That was their way of living."
Hillside firefighters stated that the flames spread quickly due to the wind and other uncontrollable obstacles.
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Hillside resident Pat says the autobody shop, Maple Mini Market and The Vibe barbershop were destroyed. She also said a store and a florist were damaged.
"They are not just business owners, they are actually residents of this community," said Dr. Christopher Michael Jones, the Hillside fire and police chaplain. "The are stakeholders in the development, the safety and the peace and prosperity of this beloved village of Hillside."
The impact of the fire is felt throughout the town.
"As you see all along the Avenue, it's nothing but businesses. Mostly black businesses," said Daryl Bowen, former Hillside resident. "And this is devastating because I've seen this transition."
The ATF and the New Jersey State Fire Marshall’s Office are working to determine the cause of the fire.
