The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating a significant building fire that occurred this afternoon in Newark, DE.
Chief Deputy Robert Fox said that at approximately 2:30 p.m., the Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder Company of Newark responded to a fire at Building 18 of the Southgate Garden Apartments. Upon their arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the roof of the building. The severity of the situation led to the command striking a second alarm and a third alarm, which brought assistance from multiple-aid fire companies.
Deputies from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, along with agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), were dispatched to the scene and are conducting an investigation to determine the fire’s origin and cause.
All occupants of the building were able to evacuate safely, and no injuries have been reported among residents or firefighters. The fire, however, has displaced over 20 residents. The American Red Cross is currently on scene, providing assistance to those affected.
Preliminary estimates indicate that the fire caused more than one million dollars in damage to the building.