ORANGE – A fire destroyed nine homes on the 200 block of Oakwood Avenue Feb. 21, displacing 39 residents. Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the blaze.
The Orange Fire Department first received reports of the fire after 1 p.m. The blaze began in an unattached house on the block between Central Avenue and Russ Monica Court. According to published reports, some neighbors said they heard a pop and saw smoke.
Flames rapidly spread to the other neighboring row houses, routing residents and prompting the Orange Fire Department to call for more aid. Fire crews from eight towns nearby arrived at the scene, Martin DeMarzo Memorial Headquarters or the Washington Avenue Station. Crews brought the blaze under control by 4 p.m.
One family's report of the death of their four dogs is the only known indication of casualties.
American Red Cross of Northern NJ head Ray Shepherd said all 39 people, including nine children, have found alternating housing. Some 23 people stayed at local motels before staying with relatives or friends.
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