By: Richard L. Smith
Over two dozen firefighters are currently battling a severe fire that has engulfed a home in Newark's North Ward.
The blaze, reported at approximately 6:55 p.m. at 574 Broadway, was initially reported through several 911 calls.
Upon arrival, fire crews were met with heavy flames tearing through the roof of the three-story wood-framed house, with the fire threatening to spread to adjacent buildings.
Firefighters quickly deployed four hose lines in an effort to control the raging inferno that had already claimed the entire structure.
As the situation escalated, officials on the scene called for a second and then a third alarm, summoning additional manpower as flames continued to devastate the building.
By 7:40 p.m., the fire remained intense, and crews were instructed to vacate the roof for their safety.
The home is expected to be a total loss once firefighters can fully subdue the flames.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and as of now, the fire has not been declared under control.
Authorities will continue working into the night to manage the crisis and begin probing its origins.