Newark Firefighters Put Out Blaze At Vacant Apartment Building

NEWARK, NJ — Newark firefighters put out a two-alarm blaze at a vacant apartment building on Monday night. Nearly 70 firefighters helped to battle the fire, with only one injury reported: a fire captain twisting his ankle, authorities said.

Firefighters responded to 11-13 Thomas Street at 11:10 p.m. after getting a call about a fire at a four-story vacant apartment building. A second alarm was called immediately due to heavy fire conditions, according to the Newark Department of Public Safety.

The fire was placed under control at 1:59 a.m.

The Newark Department of Public Safety’s Arson Unit is investigating the cause and origin of the blaze, authorities said.

The injured fire captain was transported to University Hospital for treatment and released. No other injuries were reported, authorities said.

“I commend our firefighters for their bravery in response to this two-alarm fire,” Newark Public Safety Director Brian O’Hara said. “I was proud to see them, led by Fire Chief Rufus Jackson, working so diligently to ensure that no one was inside and fighting this fire from every angle to prevent it from spreading to adjoining structures until they ultimately brought it under control.”

“I am also grateful that Fire Captain DeOlivera was not more seriously injured and was released from the hospital,” he added.

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