Faulty Power Strip Caused Fire That Killed 5 NJ Children: HCPO

HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — A tragic fire in Union City that killed five children likely started when a power strip melted and threw out sparks, authorities announced Thursday.

In addition to the five fatalities, two other people and eight firefighters were injured in the July 13 fire at 416 25th Street in Union City, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office said.

Among the deceased were Mayli Wood, 5; Jason Gonzalez, 2; Christian Josue Mendez, 7; Jose Felipe Tejada, 13; and Shamira Lopez, 4. All five are believed to be related, according to multiple news reports.

“This heartbreaking fire has been very traumatic for Union City as well as the entire Hudson County community,” said Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez. “Our investigative units, along with the help of our local, state and federal partners have worked diligently to provide a thorough investigation and possibly some closure for the community.”

• See related article: Funeral For 5 NJ Children As Union City Mourns Fatal Fire
• See related article: 5th Child Dies From NJ Fire As Family Suffers Unimaginable Loss

Here’s how the deadly fire unfolded, prosecutors said:

“On July 13, shortly before 9 a.m., officials in Union City received a report of a fire on 25th Street in Union City. First responders found that there were victims trapped in the three-story residence at 416 25th Street. Rescue efforts were made as firefighters from North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue, the Jersey City Fire Department and the Hoboken Fire Department fought the blaze.”

On Thursday, Oct. 11, prosecutors announced that their investigation into the cause of the fire revealed that it began in a multi-purpose room in an apartment on the first floor of the building.

“A report issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives on Sept. 25, concluded that the melting in a powerstrip located in [the apartment] is consistent with electrical failure, and sparks ejected from the powerstrip may have ignited combustible materials in the vicinity,” prosecutors said.

Investigators have ruled the fire an “accident,” prosecutors said.

The day after the fire, mourners paid their tearful respects to the victims with a candlelight vigil and display in Union City (see video below).

The tragedy left the Union City community "heartbroken," Mayor Brian Stack previously said.

"It is a very difficult day for Union City," Stack said. "I continue to pray for the victims and their families and offer any resources I can to assist them. I am extremely thankful for the efforts of our first responders who gave their all under extremely difficult circumstances… Union City is a close-knit community and we will rally around these families and offer our continued love and support."

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Photo 1: Chasing News / YouTube

Photo 2: Union City