Belleville Public Schools in New Jersey remained closed for a third consecutive day on Wednesday as authorities continued recovery operations following a major warehouse fire that devastated part of the township. The 12-alarm blaze, which began on Sunday afternoon inside a mattress warehouse on Cortland Street, spread rapidly to nearby buildings, including a cardboard storage facility, commercial premises and residential homes.
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Local officials said demolition and clean-up efforts are ongoing as crews work to extinguish lingering hotspots. Mayor Michael Melham confirmed that approximately 50 residents evacuated from surrounding homes are still unable to return due to ongoing water and gas outages. Temporary shelter assistance has been provided by the Red Cross.
The fire also destroyed the Legacy Boxing Club and disrupted several local businesses, with some remaining closed because of utility interruptions. Signature Fitness, a nearby 24-hour gym, confirmed it could not reopen due to the continued water outage.
Authorities reported that no civilians were injured, although at least one firefighter sustained injuries while others were treated for smoke inhalation and exhaustion. Air quality testing has also been conducted at schools amid concerns over chemicals released during the fire.
Video footage circulating online appears to show the moment the fire ignited, with flames quickly spreading through the warehouse complex within seconds. Smoke from the blaze was visible across the region, reportedly reaching as far as Manhattan.
Governor Mikie Sherrill has been briefed on the situation and remains in contact with township officials as recovery efforts continue.
Source: Advance Local ; ABC7 News
