Woman dies in New Jersey senior home fire, eight police officers sustain injuries while responding to the incident.
A tragic fire at a senior housing facility in Bayonne, New Jersey, early Tuesday morning resulted in the death of one resident, three individuals hospitalized for smoke inhalation, and injuries to eight police officers. The incident, which occurred at approximately 7:22 a.m., involved a two-alarm blaze that sparked on the third floor of the 11-story Post Road Gardens high-rise.
Fire Chief Keith Weaver confirmed that firefighters responded swiftly to the emergency call, employing two handlines to combat the flames. The situation escalated to a two-alarm fire, necessitating additional manpower for both firefighting operations and the care of residents within the building. The fire was officially declared under control by 8:17 a.m.
Investigations revealed that the occupant of the apartment where the fire originated succumbed to injuries sustained in the blaze while receiving medical attention at a local hospital. In addition to the deceased, three other residents of Post Road Gardens were hospitalized due to the effects of smoke inhalation, while four additional residents received on-site treatment and did not require further medical assistance. The eight police officers who were injured in the incident were also treated for smoke exposure.
Images shared by the Bayonne Office of Emergency Management depicted police officers receiving treatment outside the apartment complex, as local authorities worked to manage the situation. Residents in neighboring areas were advised to avoid the vicinity as first responders conducted their operations.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with inquiries being led by the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office in collaboration with the Bayonne Police Department and the City of Bayonne Fire Department. The identities and ages of the victims have not been disclosed to the public as the investigation continues.
This incident has brought forth concerns regarding fire safety and emergency response readiness in residential facilities for the elderly, prompting a closer examination of safety protocols and procedures in similar settings across the region. Media News Source will continue to monitor the investigation and any developments related to this tragic event.
