A tragic incident unfolded at an apartment complex in New Jersey on Thursday afternoon, resulting in the death of a 6-year-old boy and multiple residents being hospitalized due to injuries sustained in a fire. The heartbreaking events took place in Ewing Township, located just north of Trenton.
Reports indicated that several individuals alerted authorities to the fire at a multiple-unit complex, prompting a swift response from both the Ewing Police Department and fire officials. Calls began flooding in around 3 p.m. on Thursday, with witnesses describing the harrowing sight of heavy smoke and flames billowing from the front of the building.
Upon arrival at the scene, law enforcement officers were informed by witnesses about a child trapped on the fourth floor, where the fire had originated. In a courageous effort, officers worked to evacuate the building and reach the main apartment on the fourth floor, braving through thick smoke and intense flames in their rescue mission.
The fire department managed to access the fourth-floor apartment and locate the young boy, who was swiftly transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton for urgent medical care. Tragically, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, the child succumbed to his injuries.
In addition to the devastating loss of the young boy, a total of 13 officers, 1 firefighter, and 3 residents were also taken to hospitals for treatment of minor burns, smoke inhalation, and exhaustion following the fire. The cause of the fire remains unknown at this time, prompting an investigation by both the Ewing Police Department and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities emphasized that, as of the current moment, the fire is not deemed to be suspicious. The American Red Cross swiftly mobilized in response to the crisis, providing meals and guidance to affected families in New Jersey. Efforts are underway to support those displaced by the fire, with caseworkers being assigned to assist each family in need.
The nonprofit organization refrained from disclosing the precise number of residents displaced, although local reports indicated that 12 condos were damaged and 16 individuals found themselves without a home as a result of the blaze. For individuals seeking to assist with the ongoing investigation, Ewing Police Detective David Hartmann can be reached at (609) 882-1313 ext. 7544.
In a heartfelt statement, a spokesperson from the American Red Cross expressed solidarity with those impacted by the tragedy. The organization stands prepared to offer continued support to those recovering in hospitals and to assist families upon their release. The Red Cross reiterated its commitment to aiding those in need, extending sympathies to all those affected by the devastating fire.
The loss of the 6-year-old boy has undoubtedly left a deep wound in the community, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences from individuals across the region. As investigations continue and efforts to assist those affected persist, the community remains united in mourning the tragic events that unfolded in the wake of the fire.
Saleen Martin, a dedicated reporter with USA TODAY’s NOW team, covered
