9 Families Homeless After NJ Fire, Possible Arson Being Investigated: Report

GARFIELD, NJ — A three-alarm fire that left nine families homeless and damaged several homes on Sunday is being investigated for possible arson by the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office(BCPO), according to NJ.com.

The BCPO did not immediately respond to Patch's request to confirm the investigation.

The fire was reported around noon on Palisade Avenue in the City of Garfield.

"While we are grateful that everyone made it out safely, our hearts go out to those who were injured and to the families who are now dealing with loss and uncertainty," said Mayor Everett E. Garnto Jr.

Garnto Jr. thanked the Garfield Fire Department, Garfield Police Officers, Garfield EMS, along with all mutual aid partners from neighboring towns "who acted quickly and heroically to contain the fire and prevent an even greater tragedy. Your courage and teamwork once again remind us what true public service looks like."

Since the fire, multiple GoFundMe fundraising websites have been launched to help the families.

Amanda Geer set up a fundraiser for her family of five, which was displaced by the fire.

"We are being told that it can be weeks before we are even allowed back into our building. It has been deemed as unsafe and uninhabitable. We don't know the extent of the damages at this time but we know that there was a lot of structural damage," said Geer.

Geer added that she is very grateful her family and pets are all alive and safe.

"But we are also very lost at the moment and are not sure what's going to happen next. With all the chaos, we decided to be proactive and create this GoFundMe to help with any unexpected hotel, food, clothing costs, etc."

For more information or to donate to Geer's fundraiser, visit gofundme.com/f/help-garfield-family-displaced-by-fire.

Jasmin White also set up a fundraiser for her family.

"All of my family's belongings were damaged by smoke and water. We are grateful to god that we were able to evacuate with seconds to spare. Our cat Lila was rescued by the fire department. We are unsure of what’s next. But unfortunately unable to remain in the home and need to relocate," said White.

White is looking for any monetary donation to help with hotel, food, clothes, and school materials for her cousin, who is in 6th grade.

For more information or to donate to White's fundraiser, visit gofundme.com/f/a-tragic-sunday-for-my-family-please-help-valentin-family.

"In moments like this, Garfield shows its heart and its strength," said Garnto Jr. "Together, we will support the families impacted and help them get back on their feet."