Authorities in Little Ferry are investigating a fire that claimed the life of a 5-year-old girl and her grandmother, while injuring several other residents and three firefighters.
According to fire officials, an officer on a routine patrol heard a loud pop and requested assistance to the area.
When police and fire crews arrived to the three-story home, located on the 100 block of Washington Avenue, immediately began rescuing residents while others were forced to jump out of the home's windows.
Among the injured was a 5-year-old girl, who was found inside a third floor apartment. She was transported to Hackensack University Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries.
Firefighters also rescued the girl's grandmother from a window of the apartment. She was transported to St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston where she was pronounced dead after suffering severe burns.
Six additional residents suffered broken bones after jumping out of windows or are being treated for smoke inhalation.
The three officers' injuries included a twisted knee and smoke inhalation. All three were treated and have since been released from the hospital.
The fire was under control by approximately 2 a.m.
The fire is under investigation by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office.