United States (New Jersey) - A sunny Sunday afternoon's calm was quickly changed as flames tore through a large 2 1/2 story duplex in Ridgefield, sending up a column of smoke that could be seen for miles. At about 1:15 PM, a passer-by noticed smoke coming from a two family dwelling at 1036-1038 Alexander Ave. That person alerted the residents of the structure and everyone safely evacuated. Fire units arrived at the building, which was at the dead end of Alexander Ave., posing some access problems.

A basement fire was rapidly extending up the walls and a second alarm was transmitted. Members were withdrawn as fire began to show on the first and second floor and soon took possession of the attic. Additional mutual aid was called as Ridgefield’s tower went into operation and Palisades Park set up their tower in an empty lot across the railroad tracks from the fire building.

Ridgefield Engine 4 blew a coolant line while supplying Tower 1. A firefighter was scalded by the coolant and transported to the hospital. The injury was not serious, but he was held for observation. Live ammunition inside the residence started to go off at one point, causing some concern, but that was handled quickly.

After about a two-hour battle, all of the heavy fire was knocked down. The structure was a total loss with fire damage on all floors and the roof gone. The building was slated to be torn down Sunday night. The cause is still under investigation.

Written and photos by Bill Tompkins

Courtesy of BTFirePhotos