By: Richard L. Smith
The American Red Cross is assisting five families — a total of about 11 residents — after a fast-moving fire damaged their home in Newark’s Ironbound section Friday night, officials said.
Firefighters were dispatched to 114 Polk Street shortly before 9:10 p.m. after multiple residents reported a blaze in the area.
Upon arrival, crews found heavy smoke billowing from the building and quickly stretched several lines to bring the fire under control.
Firefighters located the source of the blaze and were able to extinguish it swiftly, but not before significant damage forced residents to evacuate and prevented them from reentering their homes.
The American Red Cross responded to provide temporary housing, clothing, food, and other essential items to those displaced.
No injuries were immediately reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Newark Fire Department.