Overnight fire destroys Paterson apartment building, injures firefighter
Crews remain at the scene, where cold temperatures caused large amounts of water to freeze, creating icy conditions throughout the area.
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An overnight fire displaced 24 residents from two buildings and sent a firefighter to the hospital in Paterson.
The fire erupted on the second floor of a three‑story apartment building at the corner of Getty Avenue and Thomas Street. The blaze escalated to a third alarm as crews worked to contain heavy flames that spread through six apartments.
Falling debris struck a Paterson firefighter during the response. The firefighter was taken to St. Joseph's Medical Center for treatment of a concussion and has since been released, according to fire officials.
The main building is a total loss, and an imminent hazard notice was issued. A building immediately to the right of the apartment suffered water damage, displacing four additional residents.
The American Red Cross is on the scene to help residents with temporary lodging, food, clothing and other emergency needs.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but it is suspected that an unattended candle may have started the blaze.
Photos courtesy Peter Danzo
