A massive fire engulfed a large industrial complex in Elizabeth, New Jersey, on January 6, 2024, creating a spectacle visible for miles around2. The blaze broke out just after 5:30 a.m. in the Elizabethport section on Trumbull Street, south of Newark Airport.
Fire Details
The fire started in building F6 of the Elizabeth Industrial Park and quickly spread to several other buildings within the complex. More than 100 firefighters responded to the scene, battling against bitterly cold temperatures and icy conditions.
Key points:
The fire reached four-alarm status
Flames were visible from over 30 miles away
One sidewall and two roofs collapsed by Friday afternoon
Firefighters established a collapse zone around the burning buildings
Challenges and Response
Firefighters faced several obstacles in their efforts to contain the blaze:
Numerous dead fire hydrants at the complex initially hindered their efforts
The FDNY sent a fireboat to assist in fighting the fire from the water
The fire was expected to burn for days due to its intensity and the nature of the buildings
Impact and Safety Measures
Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported as the buildings were unoccupied at the time of the fire. However, the incident did cause some disruptions:
School No. 13 had a delayed opening
School No. 52 was closed for the day
The mayor requested the Department of Environmental Protection to monitor air quality
Residents were warned about potential water issues due to the large amount used to fight the fire
The complex, formerly home to the Singer Sewing Machine Co., is now known as Elizabeth Industrial Park and houses multiple businesses2. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.