By: The Richard L. Smith
A massive fire that erupted at a vacant building on Grove Street in Irvington Monday night quickly spread to two additional structures after intense flames and wind-driven embers ignited neighboring buildings, keeping firefighters battling multiple fires across the neighborhood.
According to preliminary information, the first fire broke out shortly before 10 p.m. at 982 Grove Street, where firefighters arrived to find a fully involved three-story vacant wood-frame building with heavy fire showing throughout the structure.
As flames intensified, command officials reported a collapse on the building’s rear (C) side, prompting a defensive operation.
The blaze grew so intense that burning embers were carried to nearby properties, igniting additional fires at 24 Maple Avenue and 917 Grove Street.
Newark Firefighters responding to 24 Maple Avenue encountered fire on the top floor of a three-story occupied multiple dwelling.
Radio reports indicated the fire was believed to have been caused by embers from the original Grove Street blaze.
Moments later, crews were dispatched to 917 Grove Street, where another three-story occupied multiple dwelling caught fire.
Fire officials indicated wind-driven embers from the original inferno likely ignited that structure as well.
With three active structure fires burning simultaneously, Irvington fire commanders requested additional engines and ladder companies while mutual aid departments from neighboring communities responded to assist.
The original fire at 982 Grove Street was eventually upgraded to a second alarm as firefighters worked to contain the flames and protect surrounding homes.
The extent of any injuries or the number of residents displaced was not immediately available late Monday night.
The cause of the initial fire remains under investigation.