By: Jeff Sommes
One firefighter was transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center with minor injuries after crews responded to a working house fire Thursday afternoon off Paterson Avenue.
Reports say firefighters arrived at approximately 3:22 p.m. to find a fire in the basement of a 1½-story brick private residence.
Officials reported that all occupants safely evacuated the home as firefighters stretched hose lines and initiated an interior attack.
The basement fire was quickly knocked down, but crews remained on scene to check for fire extension into the first floor while continuing overhaul operations.
Three hose lines were deployed during the response, with two remaining in operation as firefighters worked to ensure the blaze was fully extinguished.
The fire was placed under control with first-alarm companies remaining at the scene.
One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was taken to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center for evaluation.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.