Infants Saved From Fire Escape In Blaze That Hurt Jersey City Fireman

JERSEY CITY, NJ — More than two dozen people were saved from a fire escape and a firefighter was injured in a Wednesday morning blaze in Jersey City, a spokeswoman said.

The Jersey City Fire Department responded to 274 Monticello Ave. just before 6 a.m., city public safety spokeswoman Kim Wallace-Scalcione confirmed.

"Three trapped occupants were rescued by JCFD firefighters," she said. "Firefighters also rescued approximately 25 occupants, including children and babies, from the fire escape."

Two people were taken to a local hospital in stable condition, she said, and a firefighter was treated at the hospital for a shoulder injury.

At least 30 people in the 14-unit building were displaced and are being helped by the American Red Cross, she said.

She said officials believe the fire started in the basement and sent heavy smoke into the hallways of the four-story building.

The fire is under investigation, she said.