By: Richard L. Smith
Newark firefighters faced a dangerous situation late Friday night as they tackled a rapid blaze that engulfed two structures in the city's South Ward, leading to the minor injury of one firefighter.
The incident was reported around 11 p.m. at the intersection of Elizabeth Avenue and West Bigelow.
Fire crews arrived to find a multi-family building, housing a convenience store/deli on the ground floor, emitting thick smoke and flames.
A neighboring house on West Bigelow was also ablaze. Firefighters quickly deployed multiple water lines to combat both fires simultaneously.
Amid the firefight, a distressing Mayday call was issued after a firefighter fell through a roof.
The injured firefighter was promptly rescued but was not rushed to the hospital. He reportedly continued fighting the fire.
The bodega, situated less than a block from Shabazz High School, is a favored destination for both students and staff who often visit the store while heading to or leaving the school.
By midnight, the flames were brought under control. A thorough search of the premises at 175 Elizabeth Avenue and 105 West Bigelow confirmed no additional injuries among occupants.
The Health Department has been engaged to address containment in the store, while the American Red Cross is assisting displaced residents.
Although the cause of the fire remains under investigation, initial indications suggest the origin at the bodega (175 Elizabeth Avenue), with subsequent spread to the adjacent three-family house.
The Newark Fire Department is committed to a full investigation to determine the cause of this incident.