UPDATE: Five lives, including three children, were tragically lost in a devastating house fire whipped by strong winds in Paterson, New Jersey, on Halloween night. Firefighters rushed to the scene at 15 Emerson Ave at 9:56 p.m. on Friday, battling a fierce blaze that rapidly engulfed the small wooden structure.
Officials report that the intense winds exacerbated the fire’s spread, reaching the second level of the one-and-a-half-story home where the victims were discovered. The identities and relationships of the deceased, two adults and three children, remain unclear as authorities continue their investigation.
The Paterson Fire Department’s Chief, Alex Alicea, confirmed that the conditions created by the wind played a critical role in the rapid escalation of the fire, which has devastated the neighborhood. The emotional toll of this tragedy is profound, with the community now mourning the loss of these lives.
In total, 11 people have been displaced by the fire. The Red Cross is on-site, providing emergency assistance to those affected. “Our disaster volunteers were at the scene and assisted three people in two families with emergency assistance for temporary lodging, food, clothing, and other immediate needs,” a Red Cross spokesperson stated. They anticipate further aid for an additional four individuals requesting support later today.
As the investigation unfolds, officials have yet to determine the cause of the fire. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to piece together the events leading up to this tragic incident.
This is an urgent and developing story—stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
