A fire tore through a row of homes in Trenton late Friday into early Saturday, killing an 18-year-old man, injuring several others and forcing 22 residents from their homes, city officials said.
The blaze broke out on the 1200 block of North Olden Avenue, damaging seven homes, according to a statement from Trenton City Hall.
Joseph Kokulo, the 18-year-old who died was a high school student preparing to participate in the city’s homecoming parade Saturday, according to Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora. He did not identify the student.
Of the three residents injured in the fire, one is in critical condition and two remain in stable condition, Gusciora said. A firefighter was also sent to the hospital.
An arson investigator has been assigned to the case, the mayor said.
“This is a heartbreaking day for our community,” Gusciora said in a statement. “To the families affected, especially to those mourning the loss of a beloved son, friend and student, please know that the entire city stands with you in grief and support.”
The active investigation involves the city’s fire department, police and code enforcement, as well as state and county officials, according to Gusciora.
“I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the brave firefighters and first responders who acted swiftly under extremely dangerous conditions to contain this fire and prevent further loss of life,” he said. “I also want to thank the neighboring departments who answered the call without hesitation.”
The American Red Cross of New Jersey provided residents with temporary lodging, food, clothing and other immediate needs, the organization said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Jelani Gibson
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