Fire ‘Devastates’ Bloomfield Building; 2 Minor Injuries Reported

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — An apartment building in Bloomfield was evacuated during a fire on Thursday morning, authorities said.

The fire took place at 73-75 Washington Street. The building was “devastated,” the Bloomfield Center Alliance stated.

According to Bloomfield township officials, the fire broke out on the 4th floor of the building around 8:15 a.m. No civilians were injured, but a Bloomfield police officer suffered smoke inhalation and a Bloomfield firefighter suffered an electric shock.

Emergency responders transported the police officer to Mountainside Hospital and treated the firefighter at the scene.

The flames and smoke were no longer visible by 9:20 a.m., but tenants were evacuated and weren't allowed back in the building. No surrounding buildings were damaged in the blaze.

Crews from the East Orange, Irvington, Clifton, Nutley, Belleville, Montclair and Verona fire departments assisted on the scene.

The fire is believed to be "accidental in nature," authorities said.

“I would like to thank the rapid response of our firefighters and the surrounding towns’ fire departments, which helped contain this fire," Mayor Michael Venezia said. "I would also like to thank our police officers who arrived to assist tenants. Unfortunately, one firefighter and one police officer suffered minor injuries but I am happy to report that they are safe and will fully recover quickly."

"Our firefighters made an aggressive interior attack of the building and worked hard to contain the fire and protect civilians," Bloomfield Fire Chief Louis Venezia said. "I am proud of their hard work and dedication to bring this fire under control very quickly."

The Bloomfield Center Alliance offered condolences to the people who live and work in the building.

“Please join us in extending prayers to the residents and workers of 73-75 Washington Street. Thankfully no one was hurt in this early morning fire that devastated their building, but it will take some time for everyone to recover from this tragedy. Stay strong Bloomfield Center! Many thanks to Bloomfield Fire and Police Department personnel for their great job!”

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