Extra-Alarm Fire Rips Through 3 Buildings In Hoboken
HOBOKEN, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- A fire broke out Sunday afternoon in Hoboken, spreading to three buildings and prompting an extra-alarm response.
The fire broke out in one of two adjacent buildings at 72 and 74 Madison St., and spread to a third at 76 Madison St., 1010 WINS' Gene Michaels reported.
Around nine apartments were damaged by the fire.
Officials evacuated the entire block because of the heavy smoke that enveloped the area. Neighbors were let back into their homes, but residents of the nine damaged units were not to be permitted back in until officials said it was safe.
Jersey City firefighters also responded to assist in fighting the blaze.
A shelter was opened at Connors School for residents who needed it.
One resident was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
Courtney Singh of Hoboken lives on the block where the fire broke out. She said her family – including her 1-year-old twins – were evacuated for a couple hours.
"We have seen so much on our Madison Street block since Sandy when the flood waters rushed through (all throughout Hoboken.) We are just glad that everyone is out safe and are thankful for all the firefighters who worked hard to put out this aggressive fire," Singh said by e-mail. "Hoboken is stronger than ever!"
Meanwhile, Hoboken resident Chris Barton shot a video of the 4-alarm fire, which showed raging orange flames and black some consuming at least one building. The fire gradually dies down as the video progresses.
Witnesses said several residents heard of propane tanks on the back decks explode. Loud popping sounds reminiscent of explosions are heard in Barton's video.
There was no word Sunday evening on what caused the fire.
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