PATERSON, NJ - Two occupants of a N. 7^th St. home were killed in a fast-moving blaze that spread to two additional structures on September 20^th.

Fire units were dispatched at about 2:30 A.M. to 71 N. 7^th St. On arrival, heavy fire was showing from the first and second floor of a two-and-a-half-story private residence, and was spreading to the very closely spaced exposures on both sides. A second-alarm was requested. Crews quickly made a search and removed one person and a dog which were turned over to EMS. 

Conditions continued to deteriorate and all companies were withdrawn from the original fire building and a third-alarm was transmitted to assist with water supply. Outside lines slowly darkened down the fire as members opened up on both exposures. By 4:00 A.M., good progress was being made, but the stability of the original fire building delayed a thorough search. Cadaver dogs were requested and assisted finding the second victim. 

The cause has not been determined. Fire units from Prospect Park and Little Falls assisted at the scene. 

A small SUV parked two blocks away learned the hard way not to park in front of a hydrant.