Passaic, N.J. – Two firefighters were hurt while battling a large apartment fire Thursday night.
Jesse Goller suffered second-degree burns to his neck and Mohmod Suleiman had injuries to his leg and hand. Both injured workers have been released from the hospital.
The four-alarm fire started at about 8:00 p.m. and quickly spread throughout the building. Fire officials say it was likely caused by an overloaded electrical system.
Crews had trouble getting close to the fire with ladders because of live electrical wires in the area, said Passaic Fire Chief Patrick Trentacost. It took over three hours for the fire to be brought under control.
Officials say about 22 people have been displaced and the apartment building is a total loss. The American Red Cross is assisting helping these people relocate.
Manfred Ricciardelli is a NJ workers' compensation lawyer and a volunteer firefighter with the Morris Township Fire Department. If you or someone you love has been hurt at work in New Jersey, contact us today at 973-285-1100.