Death Of Girl, 6, In Fire An 'Earth Shattering Tragedy,' Says Bayonne Mayor

HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — Bayonne's mayor has asked for support and prayers for the family of a 6-year-old girl killed in a fast-moving fire late Sunday night.

"Last night our city suffered an earth-shattering tragedy, as one of our beautiful children was taken from us in a fast-moving fire," wrote Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis on social media on Monday. "Six-year-old Saniya is now with the angels.

"Every once in awhile, our community is rocked with heartbreaking news, however, this is when we are at our best. I am asking that everyone in Bayonne, please pray for Saniya’s mom, brother, and all her family and friends as they try to hold up during this incredibly difficult time. Let’s be there for them and provide all the support we can. Rest in Peace sweet and beautiful Saniya."

A commenter wrote, "She was a beautiful, kindhearted, and smart little girl."

The Hudson County Prosecutor's Office said that just after 11:40 p.m. on Sunday, the Bayonne Fire Department responded to a fire at 438 Avenue C.

"Emergency responders found heavy fire and smoke throughout the two-story building. During suppression efforts, firefighters located an unresponsive juvenile," they said.

The girl was later identified as Saniya Felton, 6.

She was found on the second floor of the building, prosecutors said.

She was taken to Bayonne Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead shortly after 1 a.m. on Monday, prosecutors said.

"The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation by the Hudson County Regional Arson Task Force and the Bayonne Fire Department," prosecutors said, but added that foul play is not suspected at this time.

Bayonne's Office of Emergency Management posted video around midnight of a fire engulfing a building.

One commenter said a relative of hers with two boys had made it out, while another said she had a friend who was trying to get her pets out.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Prosecutor’s Office at 201-915-1345 or to leave a tip at:
http://www.hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj.org/homicide-tip/. All information will be kept confidential.