By: Richard L. Smith
A fatal house fire in Elmwood Park is under investigation after one man was killed and a woman injured Friday afternoon, authorities said.
According to a statement released by Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, the blaze broke out on May 1, 2026, at approximately 2:02 p.m. on Market Street.
Police and firefighters from the borough, along with mutual aid from surrounding agencies, responded to what was reported as a two-alarm fire.
During fire suppression efforts, first responders located two victims inside the residence.
An adult female sustained burn injuries and survived, while 59-year-old Shawn Torres was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Elmwood Park Police Department notified the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Squad, prompting a joint investigation with the Bergen County Arson Task Force. Detectives and fire investigators worked alongside the Elmwood Park Fire Department and the local Fire Prevention Bureau to determine the cause of the fire.
Authorities have since determined that the fire was not suspicious in nature.
The investigation remains active as officials continue to review the circumstances surrounding the incident.