By: Richard L. Smith
Newark firefighters responded to a transformer fire at a senior housing complex on Franklin Avenue on Saturday, November 23,at approximately 5:02 p.m.
The blaze, located at 920 Franklin Avenue, prompted the evacuation of residents from the building.
Two individuals were evaluated on-site by emergency medical services, with one transported to University Hospital for further examination.
The fire caused power outages across the area, with utility company PSEG addressing the issue.
While electricity has been restored to much of the affected region—spanning from Heller Parkway to Bloomfield Avenue and North 6th Street to North 8th Street—920 Franklin Avenue and two nearby senior housing buildings remain without power.
As a result, 69 families, comprising roughly 87 individuals, were impacted.
However, the majority of residents declined temporary relocation, opting to make private arrangements instead.
Only eight residents sought assistance from the American Red Cross for shelter.
Firefighters declared the fire under control by 6:24 p.m