By: Richard L. Smith
Firefighters in Newark battled a multi-alarm blaze that tore through a row home in the city’s North Ward early Monday morning.
Crews responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a fire in the 80 block of Wakeman Avenue at approximately 1:40 a.m.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from a two-and-a-half-story row home.
A second alarm was struck to bring in additional manpower as firefighters stretched several hose lines in frigid conditions, with nearly a foot of snow on the ground.
Crews aggressively knocked down the flames and worked their way inside the structure to search for any trapped or injured occupants.
Officials said about two individuals were treated at the scene for non-life-threatening injuries. Four families, including eight adults and two children, have been relocated.
One firefighter was also evaluated and treated.
The fire was brought under control in roughly an hour. More than a half dozen residents were displaced as a result of the blaze.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.