By: Richard L. Smith
A devastating fire tore through multiple residential buildings on Woodside Avenue early Sunday morning, forcing dozens of residents from their homes and sending two firefighters to the hospital. 
According to information released by the Newark Police Department, emergency crews responded to the fire at approximately 1:14 a.m. on March 2.
The blaze quickly escalated, prompting a second alarm at 1:28 a.m. and a third alarm just ten minutes later at 1:38 a.m. as firefighters battled to contain the flames engulfing buildings at 181-183, 185, 187, and 189 Woodside Avenue.
During the response, a Fire Captain suffered a head injury and was transported to University Hospital for treatment, while another firefighter was evaluated after experiencing pain from a fall.
Thankfully, both have since been released.
In addition, two civilian residents who were taken to the hospital for treatment have also been discharged.
However, officials said the impact of the fire has left many in distress, as 67 individuals—including 49 adults and 18 children—are now displaced and in need of relocation.
Authorities are investigating the cause and origin of the fire to determine what sparked it.
While no fatalities have been reported, the fire has left a deep scar on the affected families, who are now left to rebuild in the wake of the destruction. 
Officials urge anyone with information regarding the fire to come forward as the investigation continues.