A large fire tore through several homes in Paterson early Wednesday morning, damaging at least three row homes and leaving dozens of residents without shelter. Officials reported that the fire started shortly after 3 a.m. inside an apartment building on Elm Street, a residential neighborhood made up of two and three-story structures. Fire crews from Paterson and surrounding towns rushed to the scene to help battle the blaze, which spread quickly through connected row homes before it was brought under control.
Emergency response teams worked for hours in the early morning darkness as flames engulfed the residential structures. The fire created a dangerous situation for residents, many of whom were forced to flee their homes as smoke and flames overtook the buildings. Firefighters faced intense conditions but were able to stop the blaze from spreading further along the block. Officials later confirmed that at least three row homes sustained heavy damage, and the fire left numerous units uninhabitable.
The Red Cross reported that approximately 45 people from 10 separate units were displaced as a result of the fire. Volunteers worked with the displaced residents to ensure that temporary shelter, clothing, and food were provided. Families and individuals who had lost access to their homes were assisted immediately, highlighting the urgent impact of the fire on the local community. Elm Street remained filled with emergency vehicles into the morning as recovery efforts began.
Mayor Andre Sayegh stated that at least one adult required treatment for smoke inhalation, though no other major injuries were reported. The injured individual was treated promptly, and authorities emphasized that the quick evacuation of residents likely prevented additional injuries. Firefighters were praised for their swift action in containing the fire under challenging circumstances. Their coordination with neighboring fire departments was critical in ensuring that the blaze did not extend to more homes on the block.
For residents of Elm Street, the fire was both sudden and devastating. The street, known for its close-knit residential character, became the scene of chaos as families escaped with little more than the clothes they were wearing. Neighbors described waking up to the sound of sirens, alarms, and smoke filling the air. Many were left uncertain about when, or if, they would be able to return to their homes. The sense of loss was evident, but so was the resilience of the community as support services stepped in to help those affected.
As daylight broke, the extent of the damage became clearer. Charred walls, broken windows, and water-soaked interiors marked the buildings that had once been family homes. Crews worked to secure the structures to prevent further collapse, while investigators began the difficult task of determining what sparked the fire. At this point, officials have not released a cause, and the investigation remains ongoing. Fire officials are expected to review the electrical systems, appliances, and any other possible ignition sources within the apartment where the fire is believed to have started.
The fire in Paterson is a reminder of the vulnerabilities of older residential buildings, many of which are tightly packed and constructed in ways that allow fires to spread quickly from unit to unit. The city has experienced serious fires in the past, and Wednesday’s incident has reignited concerns about fire safety in densely populated neighborhoods. Local leaders may consider reviewing fire prevention measures, including inspections and community awareness programs, to help reduce risks in the future.
Despite the destruction, the response from the community has been immediate and compassionate. Volunteers, local organizations, and city officials have all pledged support for the displaced families. Many residents have offered donations of clothing and other essentials to those who lost everything in the fire. The Red Cross and other aid groups will continue working with families in the coming days to ensure longer-term housing arrangements are secured.
As investigators continue their work, residents of Elm Street are left to cope with the aftermath of a fire that has altered their lives overnight. While the rebuilding process may take time, the community spirit in Paterson has already shown strength in the face of loss. The displaced families will now rely on that support network as they begin the difficult path toward recovery. The fire stands as both a tragedy and a reminder of the importance of preparedness and community solidarity during emergencies.
