By: Richard L. Smith
The American Red Cross is assisting 16 residents from five families after a house fire in Bergen County left them homeless Saturday afternoon.
According to officials, firefighters were dispatched to 81 Grand Street in Englewood shortly before noon following reports of a fire.
When crews arrived, they discovered smoke coming from the basement of the residence. As flames began to spread from the basement to the first floor, fire officials escalated the response, signaling a second and eventually a third alarm to bring in additional manpower.
Firefighters quickly entered the burning structure to search for any trapped or injured occupants.
No serious injuries were reported.
Crews managed to bring the fire under control within an hour, though parts of the building sustained significant damage.
The American Red Cross confirmed they are providing support to the displaced residents, including food, clothing, temporary shelter, and other emergency resources.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Englewood fire officials.