By: Richard L. Smith
Two women were critically injured Wednesday night after a fire broke out in a Newark residential complex and spread to neighboring buildings, prompting a second-alarm response from firefighters.
According to information released by Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, firefighters were dispatched to 93 Riverside Court at approximately 10:07 p.m. on October 28, following reports of a fire.
As flames spread to adjacent buildings at 94 and 95 Riverside Court, fire officials called for a second alarm to bring additional personnel and equipment to the scene.
During the emergency response, firefighters rescued two women who suffered injuries.
Both were evaluated by emergency medical personnel before being transported to area hospitals for treatment.
Officials reported that both women were in critical condition.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control at approximately 10:47 p.m., about 40 minutes after the initial response.
The Newark Department of Public Safety's Arson Unit is investigating the cause and origin of the fire.
Authorities have not released additional details about the victims or what may have sparked the blaze.