Teaneck NJ Fatal 3rd alarm, 1161 Arlington Ave. 07-08-21

Two people were killed in a fast moving house fire in Teaneck NJ overnight on July 8th, 2021. At approximately 03:20 hours, Teaneck Fire Dept. responded to 1161 Arlington Ave. for a reported house fire. On arrival minutes later by Battalion 2, BC Dixon, he reported heavy fire on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the 2.5 story frame dwelling and immediately requested a 3rd alarm. The 3rd alarm brought several mutual aid companies directly to the scene, additional co's for cover and a recall of off duty firefighters. With reports of victims trapped a very aggressive attack was commenced and the main body of fire was knocked down in 10 minutes on the 2nd floor, however heavy fire broke through the roof and the fire dropped down to the 1st floor in the walls due to balloon construction. Additional hand lines were stretched into the attic and 1st floor. All visible fire was extinguished in just over an hour. The fire was placed under control in approximately 90 minutes, 1 firefighter suffered burns to his leg and was treated at the burn center before being released, 2 other firefighters suffered heat exhaustion but did not require transport to the hospital. The fire is reported to appear accidental but is under investigation by the Teaneck FD Fire Prevention Bureau and the Bergen County Prosecutor's office arson squad.