Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis has issued a first-hand account of the 5-alarm fire that severely damaged three buildings on Broadway Tuesday night, calling it “a blessing” that no one suffered major injuries.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Within a matter of minutes, conditions deteriorated prompting the call that the fire be declared 3rd and then 4th alarm. Upon arriving at the scene, I witnessed Bayonne firefighters and fire command battling what would ultimately rise to the level of a 5-alarm blaze,” Davis said in a statement.
“Conditions were fierce. Heavy winds fueled the intense fire conditions that leapt through the roof of 745 Broadway from all directions. After hours of strategic maneuvering, firefighters were able to get conditions under control.”
“Damage was largely limited to three main structures; an incredible feat considering the severity of wind and weather conditions could have easily spread the fire further, putting an entire city block in peril.”
As of this morning, a cause of the fire has not been determined and those looking to help the fire victims can donate items at the Mayor’s Office (630 Avenue C) or Archie’s Cab Service (520 Broadway).
“While damage was done and individuals have been displaced, it is a blessing that no major injuries resulted. Fire Chief Greg Rogers and Deputy Fire Chief Keith Weaver are to be commended for the tremendous job they did in managing and commanding the active scene.”
“An unending debt of gratitude is owed to the firefighters and officers of the Bayonne Fire Department who fearlessly battled the flames and adverse weather conditions to get the job done.”
Davis also offered his “sincere thanks and gratitude” to the other fire departments that made sure Bayonne had everything under control: North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue, Jersey City, Kearny, Hoboken, Bloomfield, Montclair and West Orange.
