By: Richard L. Smith
A fast-moving two-alarm fire heavily damaged a two-story home in Jersey City late Monday night, prompting firefighters to battle flames from the exterior after part of the structure collapsed.
Initial reports indicated that crews were dispatched just before midnight for a reported house fire with exposure concerns.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames shooting through the roof of the two-story private dwelling.
Officials reported the fire appeared to be gas-fed, while noting that construction was underway at the rear of the building.
As conditions deteriorated, a partial collapse occurred, forcing commanders to sound evacuation tones and establish a collapse zone around the structure.
The fire quickly spread throughout the second floor, leading incident commanders to order exterior operations only due to the dangerous conditions.
Shortly after midnight, fire officials reported that primary searches had been completed and that the bulk of the fire had been knocked down.
A fire investigator was requested to the scene to determine the cause.
No injuries were immediately reported. The investigation remains ongoing.