Passaic NJ 4th alarm, 234 Main Ave. 04-18-18

At just around 05:30 on April 18th 2018, Passaic NJ Fire Dept responded to 234 Main Ave. for a reported building fire. Upon arrival companies encountered heavy smoke pushing from a large 2.5 story corner building which housed a deli on the 1st floor and apts on the upper floors. A 2nd alarm was requested by Battalion Chief Szczygiel as companies were performing searches and rescued 2 occupants trapped on the 2nd floor and searched for the seat of the fire. A 3rd alarm was requested as conditions continued to deteriorate and the fire was located in the basement and extending up the walls. At one point it appeared that companies were making progress however flames became visible on the 2nd floor and all members were ordered out of the building. Heavy fire eventually broke out several windows on the 2nd floor and attic and even burned through the wall on the 2nd floor. 3 ladder pipes and several outside hand lines were put into operation and due to water issues a 4th alarm was requested. Eventually a portion of the roof collapsed in and after several hours of firefighting and overhaul the fire was placed under control at 10:20 by Chief of Dept Trentacost. Several firefighters suffered minor injuries and the cause of the fire is under investigation.