DOVER, NJ (Morris County) – A large 5-alarm fire injured first responders and left about 50 people displaced Saturday afternoon in Dover.
The blaze erupted at 73 West Blackwell Street around 3:19 p.m., police said.
Upon arrival of firefighters, the incident was upgraded to a second-alarm and then quickly to a third-alarm due to the extent of fire and number of potential occupants in the three attached structures. First responders evacuated the immediate area and established a perimeter which included various road closures for safety purposes, authorities said.
Firefighters began knocking down the bulk of exterior fire using the deck gun while stretching to a nearby hydrant. The fire had already heavily involved the common cockloft and with a water supply and mutual aid arriving on scene, multiple hand lines were stretched to the top floor for fire attack, authorities said.
During suppression, a partial roof collapse caused an evacuation of the structure. Once conditions were reevaluated, crews reentered the structure to complete extinguishment and overhaul, authorities said.
“Thanks to the quick actions of the Dover Fire Dept. and other first responders, no serious or life threatening injuries were reported. A Dover Police Officer and a few other first responders did sustain minor injuries but are doing well,” police said.
The municipal and county OEM officials coordinated with the American Red Cross, and town officials to provide shelter and services for approximately 50 individuals that were displaced. The town also activated a shuttle service for transportation purposes for those displaced residents, police said.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, police said.
Anyone with information related to the fire is encouraged to contact the Dover Police Department at 973-366-0302 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200.
