By: Richard L. Smith
Newark Public Safety Director Fritz G. Fragé reported that firefighters successfully extinguished a 2-alarm fire at 76 Barbara Street on Monday.
Firefighters responded to a call at approximately 8:10 p.m. regarding a fire in the basement of an occupied 3-story building.
Director Fragé said a second alarm was raised to prevent the fire from spreading to an adjacent building at 74 Barbara Street.
Two firefighters were transported to University Hospital for treatment after sustaining injuries; one suffered cuts on his arm, and the other incurred a leg and ankle injury due to a staircase collapse.
Both firefighters are reported to be in stable condition.
Two additional firefighters were treated at the scene for heat exhaustion by EMS and remained on duty.
No other injuries have been reported.
The fire was declared under control by 8:55 p.m. As a result of the incident, a total of 24 residents, including 19 adults and five children, have been relocated.
The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation by the Newark Department of Public Safety’s Arson Unit.