By: Richard L. Smith
A two-alarm fire in East Orange late Sunday night left nearly a dozen people from eight families displaced after flames tore through a residential building and threatened nearby homes.
According to fire officials, the blaze broke out just before 10:45 p.m. at a three-story, siding-framed home located at 32 North 18th Street.
Firefighters responded swiftly to multiple 911 calls reporting a fire at the property.
Upon arrival, crews observed fire spreading and quickly requested a second alarm to bring in additional manpower from nearby departments. 
Firefighters stretched multiple hose lines and were able to bring the blaze under control within an hour.
A search of the structure confirmed that no residents were trapped or injured. However, the fire caused significant damage, forcing several families to evacuate.
The American Red Cross said it assisted 23 individuals from eight families, providing emergency housing, clothing, and meals.
The cause of the fire remains under active investigation.