Apartment fire victim dies days after 3-alarm blaze in Gloucester Twp., New Jersey
Five others, including a firefighter, were injured in the blaze, and more than 100 residents were displaced
GLOUCESTER TWP, New Jersey (WPVI) -- One person has died days after a three-alarm apartment complex fire in Gloucester Township, New Jersey. Five others, including a firefighter, were injured in the blaze, according to officials.
The fire broke out just after 2 a.m. on Saturday at the Autumn Ridge Apartment Complex located on the 1500 block of Little Gloucester Road in Blackwood.
When police arrived, they found heavy smoke coming from the "C" building and immediately began evacuating residents as firefighters arrived at the scene.
Fire crews from eight departments responded to the fire. They were eventually able to get the blaze under control around 6:20 a.m.
During the incident, officials say six people were injured, including a firefighter who suffered minor burns. One of those victims died from injuries days later. The five others injured are said to be in stable condition.
The identity of the victim who died has not yet been released.
The building, which contains about 40 apartments and was home to more than 100 residents, has been deemed "uninhabitable," according to the Autumn Ridge property management company. All residents who have been displaced are receiving help from OEM and the Red Cross, according to Gloucester Township police.
"This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of home fire safety. Residents are urged to test smoke detectors regularly and use caution with candles, stoves, and space heaters as never leaving them unattended and keeping flammable materials away from heat sources. Simple precautions like these can prevent fires and save lives," police officials said.
Officials say, at this time, the fire has been deemed non-suspicious; however, the investigation remains active in coordination with the Gloucester Township Police Department.
The Camden County Fire Marshal's Office, with assistance from the New Jersey State Fire Marshal, local fire departments, and fire investigators, continues to investigate the cause of the fire.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the Gloucester Township Police Department at (856) 228-4500. Information may also be provided anonymously through the GTPD Online Tip Portal at https://gtpolice.com/tips, via the GTPD Anonymous Tip Line at (856) 842-5560, or by texting "TIPGLOTWPPD" followed by your message to 888777.
