Heroic Firefighter Dies Battling 3-Alarm House Fire In Union County

PLAINFIELD, NJ — A Plainfield firefighter has died battling a three-alarm house fire on Friday.

"It is with deep sorrow that I share the news of the passing of the heroic Firefighter Marques Hudson, who tragically lost his life this morning while bravely responding to the fire on Emerson Ave.," said Plainfield Councilman Robert K Graham.

The fire broke out at a 2.5-story home located at 332 Emerson Ave. on Jan. 26 just around 8:20 a.m.

Just before 11 a.m., one mayday was declared on the second floor where a firefighter was removed and taken to a hospital, according to Central Jersey Fire Buffs.

A mayday is called when firefighters are lost, trapped, or injured. The mayday call came after a collapse at the home, according to Union County Hazmat FMBA Local 99.

The firefighter later died from his injuries.

"Firefighter Hudson, a December 2021 addition to the Plainfield Fire Department, exemplified the utmost courage of a dedicated first responder," said Graham.

Town of Westfield, NJ Fire Department, who were among the departments to help Plainfield with the fire, expressed their condolences.

The Red Cross New Jersey also went to the fire and their team helped four people from two families to provide emergency assistance for things like temporary lodging, food, clothing and other immediate needs.

The incident is under investigation.Graham asked the community to continue to offer support to Firefighter Hudson’s family.

"Together, let us mourn this heartbreaking loss and pay tribute to the extraordinary bravery of Firefighter Hudson," said Graham.

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