On October 4, 2016, Paterson units E-6, L-1 and BC-1 responded to Goshen Street for a possible gas leak. On arrival companies confirmed a leak in the basement of the 2-1/2 story frame, described as a loud hissing sound. An evacuation of adjacent dwellings ensued and BC-1 requested R-2 special called. As Rescue 2 was in the process of removing an elderly woman from the C exposure a powerful explosion ripped through the home destroying it, as well as the B exposure, another 2-1/2 story frame with heavy fire in the debris. DC-3 arrived shortly after the explosion and requested a second alarm. All visible fire was knocked down in about 20 minutes but companies continued to wet down the rubble due to deep seated fire which continued to smolder. Miraculously all occupants had been safely evacuated prior to the explosion and no civilians were injured. Fifteen firefighters and three police officers were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The D exposure building was severely damaged and was torn down. The B-1 exposure was also heavily damaged. As many as 56 other buildings in the area suffered damage and were being evaluated by engineers. A total of 38 people were displaced.
– Fire News photos by Peter Danzo and Mark Rosetti
