High School Student Killed, 3 Injured In 3-Alarm Fire In Mercer County

MERCER COUNTY, NJ – A high school student was killed and three others were injured in a multi-home fire in Trenton on Friday night, authorities said.

The three-alarm fire took place at the 1200 block of N. Olden Ave, engulfing seven homes and displacing 22 people.

The person killed has been identified as 18-year-old Joseph Kokulo, a member of the Junior ROTC.

“His uniform was ready in his room for Saturday’s Homecoming Parade. His loss is immeasurable,” Mayor Reed Gusciora said.

The Trenton Junior ROTC described Kokulo as a dedicated cadet, loyal friend, and natural leader.

“Throughout his time with us, Joseph exemplified the highest standards of discipline, commitment, and respect. He approached every challenge with determination. His positive spirit, quiet strength, and willingness to support others left a lasting impact on everyone who had the honor of knowing him,” the Trenton JROTC said in an Instagram post.

The Trenton Public Schools, through Superintendent James Earle, have mobilized grief counselors to help classmates and staff process this tragedy.

Two people remain hospitalized with burns, with one listed in critical condition.

According to Gusciora, two Ewing officers were among the first on scene, helping families escape.

Neighboring fire companies from Ewing, Hopewell, Lawrence, Hightstown, Hamilton, and Princeton rushed with personnel and equipment to assist.

A local Good Samaritan, Donnie Wilson, was passing by when he saw a child escape and cry out that his grandmother was inside. Wilson stopped his car, went into the burning home, and helped the woman to safety, Gusciora said. He even tried to rescue her cats.

Trenton’s Department of Health & Human Services with Director Diego Minacapelli, and Janet Porter, met with families to assess immediate needs for food, clothing, and long-term support.

The Red Cross is providing temporary housing.

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