By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities have confirmed that a child was killed and several others were injured following a devastating early-morning fire that tore through a residential building in Perth Amboy Friday.
The blaze erupted shortly before 2:45 a.m. in the 100 block of Chauncey Street, prompting a massive response from firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, and mutual aid agencies.
Officials said two victims suffering severe burn injuries were airlifted to a regional burn center for treatment.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or clarified whether the child who died was among those transported.
In addition to the civilian casualties, a firefighter, a Perth Amboy police officer, and another civilian sustained minor injuries while responding to the emergency.
“This is a devastating loss for a family and for our community,” Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin J. Caba said in a statement.
Firefighters from neighboring Woodbridge and Sayreville assisted Perth Amboy crews in bringing the intense blaze under control.
The disaster displaced numerous residents. Officials with the American Red Cross of New Jersey reported that assistance was provided to 24 individuals from five families, including temporary housing, food, clothing, and other emergency support services.
The cause of the fire remains under active investigation.