50 Displaced As Fire Ravages Morris County Apartment Building

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — More than 50 people were displaced this weekend when a fire destroyed a multi-story housing complex in Dover, authorities said.

The fire on 73 West Blackwell Street was reported at about 3:19 p.m. Saturday, the Town of Dover Police Department said. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, police said.

Municipal and county OEM officials worked together with the Red Cross, Superintendent McLaughlin, Mayor Carolyn Blackman and other local officials to offer shelter and services for around 50 displaced people.

The Town of Dover has activated a shuttle service to assist displaced people with transportation.

Fire officials said there were no serious injuries; however, a Dover police officer and a couple of other first responders were injured but are now recovering well.

An exceptional community effort was also seen as good Samaritans, including members of the Department of Public Works, jumped in to help Dover Police Officers move a huge amount of temporary fencing so fire apparatus and fire personnel could swiftly get access to the back of the building.

Firefighters initially entered the three-story structure near the intersection of Dewey and Whitewell Streets to put out the fire but were forced to evacuate around 4:10 p.m. after a partial roof collapse.

"Once conditions were reevaluated, crews reentered the structure to complete extinguishment and overhaul," Dover NJ FMBA 60 said.

Investigators say the fire caused extensive damage to the back of the building.

Based on the circumstances, multiple nearby fire departments, police departments, utility companies such as JCP&L, and town officials responded to assist.

The Morris County Sheriff's Office, Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Wharton Police, Randolph Police, and Rockaway Borough Police Departments were among those involved in law enforcement.

The investigation into the cause of the fire is active and ongoing at this time, police said.

"Thank you to all the members of the Dover community who came together and assisted first responders with this tragic event. Specifically, Casa Puerto Rico, who opened their doors and provided their facility and assistance during this incident, Thank you to the local businesses, including HEAV~EN, Pollos Pucalor, and others, who also donated trays of food," Dover police said.

If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Dover Police Department at 973-366-0302 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200.