2 Killed In Union County Fire Identified, 2 Firefighters Also Hurt

PLAINFIELD, NJ — The City of Plainfield identified Leonel Garcia-Cortez and Maria Guaya as the two people who died in the apartment fire at 308 West Front St. on Sunday.

They leave behind two children, ages 17 and 11.

Three others were treated for smoke inhalation, including a baby who received care at the scene.

Two firefighters were also hurt in the fire and have been released after treatment.

There are 41 residents who are still homeless and staying full-time at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center with assistance from the Red Cross. There are others who are in and out due to work and other personal situations.

"Plainfield has suffered a tremendous loss," said Adrian O. Mapp, Mayor of Plainfield. "We mourn the tragic passing of Leonel Garcia-Cortez and Maria Guaya, and our hearts are with their children, their family, and every resident affected by this devastating fire."

Deadly Fire

Shortly after 1 a.m. on Sunday, firefighters responded to an alarm of smoke in the third-floor hallway. After receiving multiple calls, the situation was upgraded to a full structure fire response.

Firefighters noticed heavy smoke leaving the roof and a fire at the back of the building when they arrived. Evacuations began and a working fire was declared.

Garcia-Cortez and Guaya were both trapped before being pulled out by firefighters.

The building sustained significant structural collapse damage, including severe roof failure. It is still unusable as of Monday afternoon.

The Red Cross said they were assisting around 90 people following the fire.

A second building on Madison Avenue was also affected. Power has since been restored, and the building is waiting verification of heat and water service before anyone is allowed back in.

Boilers and plumbing are being restored as of Monday afternoon.

The City of Plainfield said residents may be able to get back inside by Monday evening. A notification plan will be utilized.

The 41 residents still homeless are receiving aid from the Plainfield Office of Emergency Management, Union County Office of Emergency Management, and New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. Donations can no longer be accepted at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center due to volume constraints.

The Plainfield Board of Education is also working with Medes Church to accept donations of clothing and restaurant-made meals at 504 Madison Ave. Tables and distribution areas will be at the Church for residents to visit.

The owner of the building will begin issuing security deposit refunds on Tuesday to all residents who are homeless in order to help with relocation, the City said.

The cause of the fire is still under review.

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