RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ - Tragedy struck on Christmas morning, December 25, 2024, in Ridgefield Park at approximately 11:00 A.M. as companies were dispatched to 26 Emerson Street for a house fire. Fire greeted first due units with heavy fire on the top floors of the private dwelling.

As fire began to spread to the top floor, companies were evacuated from the home due to the interior stairway being compromised. After a strategic withdrawal, companies re-entered the home to knock down hotspots. To fully get at any remaining hotspots, Ladder 2 was repositioned for aerial placement for firefighters to use to get at some remaining fire.  

After extensive overhaul to ensure all hot spots and pockets of fire were extinguished, the fire was declared under control. One minor injury to a firefighter was reported.

Mutual aid at the scene included Bogota, Teaneck, Hackensack and Englewood. County-wide provided rehab for firefighters. Cover companies included Little Ferry, Leonia, Ridgefield and others. Ridgefield Park fire prevention is investigating the cause of the blaze.