Police officials in newark are reporting that firefighter Mr. Paul Leber, 38, was injured during a fire that occurred at 8 Park Avenue last night.
According to officials, at approximately 9:12 p.m., firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire at Velez Tire Shop in which Leber, a 10-year veteran, became disoriented inside the building.
Officials said firefighter Leber was in the tire shop with other members of Engine 7 which included a probationary firefighter.
As conditions worsened, they were ordered out of the building. As they were exiting, Leber became disoriented and members of Engine 7 and Rescue 1 went back into the building with other firefighters and rescued him officials said.
Leber was initially transported to University Hospital for treatment and was listed in critical condition then later moved to Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx for further treatment.
The fire was declared under control shortly after 11 p.m.
The cause and nature of the fire is being investigated by arson detectives from the Newark Fire Division.
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka thanked Firefighter Leber and all our firefighters for the job they do daily and asked that we all keep Leber in our prayers and for a full recovery.
Director Ambrose credits the members of Engine 7, Rescue 1 and other members of the Fire Division for the successful rescue of Firefighter Leber. He also praised the efforts of the firefighters that re-entered the building to ensure that Firefighter Leber escaped.
“These firefighters should be commended on the job they do each day. They willingly risk their lives by entering burning buildings to ensure that others survive,” he said.