Update: Mayhew Drive Fire Sparked by Unattended Candle

The fire department has determined that the early morning fire on Mayhew Drive was sparked by an unattended candle in the home's second floor.

According to a report sent to Patch by Fire Chief Jeff Markey, firefighters had been checking out a report of a smell of smoke on West End Road early Friday morning, but had been unable to locate the source. While returning from the area at about 3:27 a.m., they encountered a teenager screaming in front of 9 Mayhew Dr. When questioned, she said there was a fire on the second floor of her home and her mother was still inside.

Firefighters quickly entered the home, and rescued the woman, who Chief Markey said apparently had a medical condition and was disoriented. She was treated for smoke inhalation by the South Orange Rescue Squad but did not appear to suffer any injuries, he said.

Joined by engine companies from Maplewood and Orange, firefighters extinguished the flames, but not before the residence suffered extensive fire, smoke and water damage.

The home is now uninhabitable, according to Chief Markey. The mother and daughter were staying with a neighbor and were told they would be contacted by the building department on Monday morning.