By: Richard L. Smith
A devastating house fire claimed the life of one individual in Newark’s Fairmount neighborhood late this morning, as firefighters battled intense flames at a residential property.
The blaze erupted shortly after 11 a.m. at a two-and-a-half-story home located at 279 South 11th Street.
Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered heavy flames engulfing the first floor of the structure. Initial reports suggested possible occupants trapped inside, prompting an immediate and aggressive rescue operation.
Firefighters quickly deployed multiple hose lines, successfully controlling the flames enough to enter the home and conduct a thorough search.
Inside, they discovered one severely injured individual, who was rushed from the scene but later pronounced dead due to the extent of their injuries.
Authorities have withheld the identity of the deceased pending notification of family.
No additional serious injuries were reported following an extensive search of the property. Crews successfully extinguished the blaze within 30 minutes.
Newark Police directed all questions to the Essex County Prosecutor's Office
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by local authorities.