​Newark Police Seek Leads In Suspected Arson

NEWARK, NJ — Authorities in Newark are investigating a recent three-alarm fire they say could have been the result of arson.

The fire broke out around 11 a.m. on Friday at 121 South 11th Street, authorities said. Within 20 minutes, the fire had spread to two nearby homes, and some 90 firefighters had responded to the scene.

No one was seriously injured in the blaze, but a 15-year-old was taken to University Hospital for smoke inhalation, and a family of five was displaced, authorities said. The fire was considered under control as of 12:15 p.m.

Authorities say a man, believed to be a squatter, was seen leaving the home just before the fire, which is being investigated as an arson. The man was wearing a gray hooded sweat shirt, a green coat, dark pants and black boots, police said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Newark Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). Tips can also be submitted online at www.newarkpd.org or through the Newark Police Devision application, available on iTunes and Google Play.