By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities are investigating a fatal house fire in West Orange that claimed the life of a woman early Friday morning, according to Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and West Orange Fire Chief Anthony Vecchio.
The fire was reported around 4:56 a.m. at a two-story residence on Westwood Drive.
Three female occupants were transported to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston for treatment.
One of the victims, identified as Chinwe Obi, 36, was pronounced dead at 6:24 a.m.
Officials said the victim’s mother and sister are being treated for smoke inhalation.
The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation. No additional information was immediately available.