NEWARK, NJ – In a heart-wrenching incident, a Newark family and their community are grieving the loss of a nine-year-old girl who perished in a devastating fire. The blaze, which erupted overnight on the top floor of a three-story residence on Astor Street, has left two other children hospitalized. The cause of this tragic fire remains unknown, leaving many questions unanswered.
The early morning hours were marked by chaos and heroism as one young boy managed to escape the inferno. In a desperate bid for help, he ran down the street, returning with two brave men who risked their lives to rescue those trapped inside. “Get out, fire!” they shouted, as they joined neighbors in a frantic effort to save lives before first responders arrived.
Among the rescuers was Gabrielle Polanco, who lives on the first floor. Awoken by the commotion, she rushed outside with her baby, overwhelmed by fear as she heard children crying from the upper floors. “It was really bad,” she recounted, her voice tinged with emotion.
Workers from a nearby bodega also sprang into action upon noticing smoke and flames. “Poppy, it’s a fire!” one of them yelled, rallying others to join the rescue efforts. Despite their valiant attempts, the intense flames prevented them from reaching a third-floor bedroom, where the fire’s devastation was most severe.
Firefighters and police quickly arrived, evacuating residents and ensuring everyone’s safety. However, the community was left shattered by the loss of the young girl, whose injuries proved fatal. The sight of her being carried from the building was a poignant moment for all who witnessed it.
The affected families from the second and third floors have yet to be seen, as neighbors recall how the children attended school and played together. The sense of loss is palpable, as the community grapples with the tragedy that has struck so close to home.
As investigations continue, the cause of the fire remains a mystery. The local community is left to mourn and support one another in the wake of this heartbreaking event, hoping for answers that may help prevent such a tragedy in the future.