Residents return to Bogota apartment complex for first time since Sunday fire
The fire displaced dozens of residents. One minor injury was reported.
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Residents returned to collect their belongings after an apartment fire in Bergen County Sunday that caused significant damage.
The building on Palisade Avenue was evacuated Sunday afternoon, leaving dozens of people displaced.
Everyone made it out of Bogota safe, but the fire department says there was one minor injury.
Residents arrived on Monday with trash bags, suitcases and boxes see what was left and collect their belongings.
Each person was escorted in and out of the building for the first time since the fire.
"I'm hoping I get some clothes, the electronics can be replaced," said resident Angel.
Some residents had nothing to grab. One resident lived in an apartment on the top floor where the roof collapsed. She says her family lost everything.
Most people said they didn't take anything when they ran out.
"I didn't grab anything. I just grabbed a hoodie and my sweats, and I walked out and there was just smoke seeping out," said Angel.
It wasn't until hours later they realized they wouldn't be back home any time soon. As a temporary fix, some residents are staying in hotels, while others are staying with family or friends. The Red Cross has assisted over 40 people.
The cause of the fire is still unknown. The fire department told News 12 it is worried about the building's structure at this time.
A previous report by Lauren Due
