4 Injured in Paterson Fire, Including Battalion Chief; Arson Suspected

Paterson Fire Investigation

• 🚒 Investigators are treating a fire that engulfed a residential building in Paterson as a possible arson.
• ⚠️ Video evidence, potentially showing someone lighting the fire, has been submitted to the Fire Investigation Unit.
• 📌 The fire occurred on McBride Avenue near Glover Avenue, with officials called to the scene just before 6:30 AM.

Building Damage and Occupant Impact

• 🏠 The fire ripped through a building with two apartments in the back and two businesses on the front.
• 💔 Residents escaped flames, with some jumping from second-story windows; three residents suffered smoke inhalation.
• 👨‍🚒 A battalion chief was injured when the back of the building collapsed.
• 🏠 Two families, totaling six people, are now homeless, and two businesses have been destroyed.

Business Losses and Animal Fatality

• 💸 One business owner reported losing approximately $200,000 worth of cannabis CBD products and equipment.
• 🐶 Sadly, one of the women living in an apartment reported that one of her dogs died from smoke inhalation.
• ✅ All four injured individuals are reported to be in stable condition.

Community Support and Ongoing Investigation

• 🤝 The Red Cross was present to assist those affected by the fire.
• 🕵️ Officials are investigating the possibility of homeless individuals or squatters in the rear of the building.
• 🔍 The investigation aims to determine if the fire was set intentionally.