NEWARK, N.J. — A massive fire tore through five homes in Newark on Tuesday evening, leaving nine families homeless and prompting an investigation into whether squatters in a vacant home sparked the blaze.
Emergency crews responded to a massive three-alarm fire in Newark on Tuesday that tore through several homes, forcing evacuations and sending thick black smoke billowing across the city.
The fire broke out in the early evening, with witnesses reporting that smoke could be seen from up to 20 miles away. Numerous fire departments were called in to help battle the flames, which spread rapidly across multiple homes in the residential neighborhood.
Officials have not yet determined the cause of the fire, which continues to be under investigation. Firefighters worked through strong winds and low water pressure, according to local reports, as they fought to bring the blaze under control.
Officials said the fire spread quickly, consuming homes, trees, a utility pole, and a car, making it difficult for firefighters to contain the flames. The Irvington and Newark Fire Departments battled the blaze but faced challenges, including low water pressure and strong winds, according to an ABC 7 news report.
By 7 p.m., firefighters had the fire under control. No injuries were reported aside from an elderly man who was taken to University Hospital for a health issue unrelated to the fire.
The fire began in a vacant home and spread to neighboring houses. Officials are investigating whether squatters staying in the abandoned property were responsible for the fire. One local resident said complaints had previously been made about the presence of squatters.