Overview
- Fire crews reached 15 Emerson Ave at 9:56 p.m. Friday and encountered heavy flames at the rear of the small wood-frame home.
- Fire Chief Alex Alicea said strong winds drove a rapid spread to the upper level where two adults and three children were found.
- The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation into the origin of the blaze.
- Eleven residents were displaced, and the American Red Cross is providing emergency lodging, food, clothing and other aid.
- Crews battled a fast-moving fire in gusty winds and freezing conditions through the night.