A tragic fire broke out in a Newark, New Jersey, home overnight, claiming the lives of two young girls, aged 6 and 8. The fire destroyed a multi-family house, leaving the community heartbroken.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene just after midnight on Sunday to fight the flames and thick smoke engulfing the building on Eckert Avenue.
Neighbors and first responders worked tirelessly to save those inside, but sadly, it wasn’t enough.
Shonda Simpson, a nearby resident, recalled the horrifying moment she called 911. “They came fast and strong. Everyone tried their best to get the kids out, but it wasn’t possible,” she said.
According to officials from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the two little girls were found severely burned and unresponsive on the ground floor.
Despite efforts to resuscitate them, the girls were pronounced dead at the scene.
“They were beautiful girls from a lovely family,” Simpson added, visibly shaken by the event.
Witnesses revealed that the fire may have started during a birthday celebration, where the girls were reportedly playing with fire near a couch in the hallway on the second floor.
Investigators have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire but believe it began on the second floor, where windows on both the second and third stories were completely destroyed by the flames.
The Red Cross has stepped in to provide emergency assistance to seven families displaced by the fire, which includes 15 individuals.
Newark fire officials have yet to release the full number of casualties or the official cause of the fire.
Linwood Duncan, who lives in one of the apartments, shared his relief at being alive.
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He explained that he was staying at his son’s house that night to avoid the noise from the birthday party. “If I had been home, I wouldn’t have been able to get out.
The hallway was blocked with furniture. I lost everything, but I’m just thankful to be alive,” Duncan said.
Another resident echoed his sentiments, sharing how the fire had left them with nothing. “I’ve lost everything. I don’t even have shoes to wear to work tomorrow,” she said, devastated by the loss.
This heartbreaking event has shaken the community, leaving many grieving the loss of the two young lives and the families affected.
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.