Weekend Fire In Hempstead Displaces 18, Including Baby: Red Cross

HEMPSTEAD, NY — A weekend house fire left 18 people displaced, the American Red Cross said.

Flames on Saturday morning caused damage to five apartments on Front Street, Frederic Klein, of the American Red Cross of Greater New York, said.

Klein said there were 13 adults and five children, including a baby, among the displaced.

"It's heartbreaking," he said.

The Red Cross is providing short-term support during the emergency, including financial assistance and basic supplies. Families are also receiving a case worker to help them.

It's not clear how the fire started or if the families can return to their homes.

The Nassau County fire marshal says the home was illegally subdivided into multiple apartments and rental rooms, News 12 reported.