4-alarm Jersey City fire displaces 6 families

Officials say crews responded to the fire at 165 Danforth Ave. around 2 p.m.

Joti Rekhi

Mar 3, 2025, 3:10 AM

Updated 7 hr ago

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Officials say six families were displaced after a four-alarm fire broke out Sunday afternoon in a three-story Jersey City home. Officials say crews responded to the fire at 165 Danforth Ave. around 2 p.m. According to officials, the fire was particularly challenging to fight due to high speed winds. “There was a cop on the porch and he was telling me to hurry up and get out of the house,” said Yolanda Carter, nearby resident. “I saw the black smoke, all the fire engines, people on the sidewalk and I said ‘Oh my God, the house is on fire.’” The fire began on the first floor of the home on 165 Danforth Ave. and then quickly spread to 163. “I was concerned about the children and the family that lives in that apartment,” Carter said. “I’m glad everyone got out safely.” Power and gas were cut off as precaution after an oxygen tank and propane tank exploded. It took crews nearly two hours to get the fire under control. One firefighter suffered for minor injuries. “It’s mind-baffling,” said Minnie McManus, nearby resident. “I don’t know how the fire started, but my neighbors are devastated by the whole thing. We have three houses that are involved.” The Red Cross was assisting 22 adults and four children who were displaced as of Sunday night. “It’s sad. There’s no other word. I really feel sorry for them,” McManus said. “If there is any way to help, I’m glad to do it.” A cause of the fire was not immediately known as of Sunday night.