March 24, 2024

TRENTON (Mercer) – One person was injured and several pets died as the result of a house fire Saturday night (March 23, 2024). The blaze at 23 Hart Avenue, off North Clinton Avenue, was reported about 9:05 p.m. and was brought under control in less than a half-hour by firefighters from Engines 6, 10, 7 and 1, Ladders 4 and 2, and Rescue 1. 

The bulk of the damage was concentrated on the second floor and roof area of the two-story rowhome. One person, believed to be a resident, was transported to a local hospital by Trenton Emergency Medical Service (TEMS) for treatment of unspecified injuries. At least one dog was removed from the house alive but several others that were carried out by firefighters did not survive despite valiant resuscitation efforts attempted by TEMS personnel on scene. The cause of the blaze was under investigation by fire officials. 

While more than half of the city’s on-duty firefighting force was committed to fighting the fire on Hart Avenue, remaining available fire companies were strategically relocated to better protect the city. While relocating from the firehouse on West State Street to a more centrally-located location at Fire Headquarters on Perry Street, Ladder 1 was involved in a minor motor vehicle crash on Route 29. It was reported that another vehicle had struck the fire apparatus, but thankfully no injuries were reported.  

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