Paterson, NJ (September 5, 2025) – A tragic fire that erupted Thursday evening in a multifamily home on the 400 block of 31st Street has claimed the life of one resident and left six others displaced, according to city officials and emergency services.
The fire was reported around 6:15 p.m. in the kitchen of the home. Paterson firefighters arrived to find one man critically injured. He was quickly transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead from his injuries. Authorities identified the victim as a 51-year-old man, though his name has not yet been released to the public.
City officials confirmed the building housed multiple families. In the aftermath of the blaze, six individuals from three separate households were left without shelter. The New Jersey Red Cross stepped in Friday morning to assist those displaced, providing emergency housing, food, clothing, and essential supplies.
Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh acknowledged the loss and expressed gratitude to first responders for their efforts. The cause of the fire remains under active investigation. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities at this time.
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office is urging anyone with information about the fire to come forward to aid in the ongoing investigation.
Our hearts go out to the victim’s family and to all those affected by this devastating event.
Fire Safety in Multifamily Homes Across New Jersey
Residential fires, particularly in multifamily dwellings like the one on 31st Street, can spread rapidly and have catastrophic consequences. The kitchen remains the most common origin point for house fires across the country—often linked to unattended cooking, malfunctioning appliances, or grease buildup.
This tragic incident in Paterson not only highlights the deadly risk posed by residential fires but also underscores the vulnerability of individuals living in shared housing units. Close quarters, older electrical systems, and limited escape routes often contribute to higher injury and fatality rates in multifamily buildings.
For survivors of home fires, the trauma extends far beyond the initial blaze. Many are left without personal belongings, identification, medications, and critical records. The swift action of organizations like the Red Cross can provide a temporary lifeline, but long-term recovery often requires coordinated support from both local and state agencies.
Residents in similar housing structures are encouraged to review fire escape plans, ensure working smoke detectors are installed on each level, and report any electrical or structural issues to landlords or city code enforcement offices.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a residential fire, it’s important to seek both emotional and logistical support during the aftermath. From temporary shelter and legal aid to trauma recovery and community services, help is available.
At Local Accident Reports, we’re here to assist victims of residential disasters like this one. Whether you need help connecting to emergency housing, navigating insurance, or finding professional support, our team is ready to guide you through the next steps. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today to begin your path toward recovery and stability.
