Two people died and at least 20 residents were displaced after a house fire in Orange on Saturday morning, authorities said.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed a 9-year-old girl and an "elderly woman" died during the blaze that damaged the home on Park Place. Officials did not release the victims’ identities or provide an exact age for the older woman.
What happened
Neighbors told Eyewitness News the fire began around 8:30 a.m.. Several residents attempted to enter the house because they believed people were trapped inside but were driven back by heavy smoke, those neighbors said.
A video obtained by Eyewitness News showed thick black smoke rising from the property and visible from miles away as a large emergency response descended on the scene. It was not immediately clear what caused the fire, and investigators have not released details about a suspected origin.
Relief and response
The American Red Cross said it was assisting displaced residents with emergency needs. In a statement, the organization outlined the types of support volunteers will provide:
"Volunteers will provide emergency assistance for temporary lodging, food, clothing, and other immediate needs. Red Cross Disaster Health, Disaster Mental Health, and Spiritual Care Services are also available to the families."
- Fatalities: 2 (a 9-year-old girl and an elderly woman)
- Displaced: at least 20 residents, according to the Red Cross
- Time reported: around 8:30 a.m., neighbors told Eyewitness News
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Park Place, Orange, Essex County |
| Confirmed deaths | 2 |
| Displaced residents | At least 20 |
| Cause | Under investigation |
Investigations and next steps
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is involved in the response and has not released further information about the victims or the fire’s cause. Local fire officials and investigators typically examine the scene and interview witnesses to determine origin and whether criminal activity or accidental factors were involved; no such determinations have been announced in this incident.
Neighbors described a chaotic scene in the aftermath as emergency crews worked and displaced families sought shelter. The Red Cross statement indicated that physical and mental-health support services were being offered to those affected.
News Block will update this report as officials release additional details, including the identities of the deceased and any findings from the investigation.
