By: Richard L. Smith
According to information released by Acting Hudson County Prosecutor Wayne Mello, authorities are investigating an early-morning fire that left a 79-year-old Jersey City resident critically injured on Saturday, November 22.
The Jersey City Fire Department was alerted to a blaze at 241 Baldwin Avenue shortly after 1 a.m.
When firefighters arrived, they found smoke and active fire coming from the basement of the residential property.
While working to contain the flames, crews discovered an unconscious male inside the basement area.
First responders quickly removed the victim and transported him to Jersey City Medical Center with serious injuries.
Officials said he was later transferred to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, where he remains in critical but stable condition.
The Hudson County Regional Arson Task Force and the Jersey City Fire Department are jointly investigating what sparked the fire.
At this time, officials say foul play is not suspected.
More details will be released as the investigation continues.