The Hudson County Regional Arson Task Force and the Bayonne Fire Department are investigating a fatal two-alarm fire that broke out early this morning.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“At 7:22 a.m., the Bayonne Fire Department responded to 537 Ave A, an 11-story high rise, and arriving companies found fire in an apartment on the third floor. Firefighters used two hand lines to extinguish the blaze, which was declared under control at 8:17 a.m.,” Fire Chief Keith Weaver said in a statement.
“The fire progressed to two alarms as extra manpower was needed for fire operations and to care for occupants of the building. An occupant of the original fire apartment was removed by firefighters and transported to a local hospital, where she passed away. Three residents and eight police officers were transported to a local hospital for smoke inhalation, while four other residents were treated at the scene and refused further medical treatment.”
He added that all other occupants were able to safely return to their apartments and that the incident was under investigation.
At approximately 7:30 a.m., the Bayonne Fire Department was notified of a fire at 537 Avenue A. Upon arrival, first responders observed smoke coming from a third-floor unit of a multi-story structure, Acting Hudson County Prosecutor Wayne Mello said in a statement.
During suppression activities, firefighters located an unresponsive female within a bedroom.
The victim – later identified as Irene Clark, 82, of Bayonne – was transported to Bayonne University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly after 9:30 a.m.
This matter is under investigation by the Hudson County Regional Arson Task Force and the Bayonne Fire Department, with foul play not suspected at this time.
