A ferocious fire that ignited a tire shop in Newark's North Ward last night has a firefighter fighting for his life this morning.
According to fire officials, Firefighter Mr. Paul Leber, 38, was identified as the injured member during a fire that occurred at 8 Park Avenue -Velez Tire Shop- last night.
Officials said at approximately 9:12 p.m., firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire in which Leber, a 10-year veteran, became trapped inside the building along with a probationary firefighter who was able to escape.
Fellow firefighters quickly rescued Leber then transported him to University Hospital for treatment where fire officials said he is listed in critical condition at this time and will be moved to Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx for further treatment.
Crews brought the fire under control shortly after 11 p.m. with the cause and nature of the fire under investigation by arson detectives from the Newark Fire Division.
Director Ambrose credits the members of Engine 7, Rescue 1 and other members of the Fire Division for the successful rescue of Firefighter Leber.