East Orange, NJ – At Least 36 People Injured in Apartment Building Fire on Washington St
East Orange, NJ (January 12, 2026) – Dozens of people were injured on Sunday, January 11, after a fire broke out inside an apartment building on Washington Street in East Orange, Essex County. Emergency crews responded to the scene around 6:15 a.m. after receiving reports of a structure fire with residents trapped inside.
When firefighters arrived, they encountered heavy smoke and active fire on the first floor of the building. Thick gray smoke filled the hallways and stairwells, limiting visibility and making evacuation difficult for residents on multiple floors. Crews immediately began rescue and evacuation efforts.
Authorities confirmed that at least 36 people were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Among those injured were two firefighters who suffered minor injuries while assisting with rescue operations. Officials did not release details about the extent of injuries suffered by residents, but many were treated for smoke inhalation.
Several residents initially believed they could remain inside their apartments on lower floors. As conditions worsened, emergency crews ordered a full evacuation of the building. Some residents exited using stairwells that were completely dark and filled with smoke. Others required assistance through windows as firefighters worked to reach those unable to evacuate on their own.
Firefighters worked to remove her safely while smoke continued to spread through the building. The rescue required coordination and additional time as crews navigated limited access and hazardous conditions.
Fire officials reported that multiple rescues took place from windows, with assistance from mutual aid companies that arrived to support East Orange crews. Firefighters worked for more than an hour to bring the blaze under control, which they achieved around 7:50 a.m.
The Red Cross responded to the scene to assist displaced residents. Disaster response teams provided immediate support, including temporary shelter assistance and basic necessities for those forced from their homes.
Investigators continue examining the building and gathering information to determine how the fire started.
Our thoughts remain with the residents and firefighters affected as they continue to receive care and begin recovery.
Compensation Available After A Residential Fire In New Jersey
After a residential fire in New Jersey, compensation may include medical costs, property damage, temporary housing expenses, and lost wages, depending on responsibility and insurance coverage.
Medical expenses often represent a major concern after a fire. People treated for smoke inhalation, burns, or other injuries may face emergency care costs, hospital stays, medication, and follow-up treatment.
Compensation may be available to help cover these medical expenses when injuries result from unsafe conditions or negligence.
Temporary displacement can also create financial strain. Many residents lose access to their homes and personal belongings after a fire. Costs related to temporary housing, clothing, and essential items may become part of a claim, depending on insurance coverage and the circumstances surrounding the fire.
Property damage is another common issue. Fires can destroy or severely damage furniture, electronics, and other personal items. Compensation may include repair or replacement of damaged property if liability exists beyond a tenant’s own insurance policy.
Lost income may also apply in some cases. Injuries or displacement can prevent people from returning to work right away. Documentation from employers and medical providers often helps explain these losses. Compensation may account for missed wages or reduced earning ability during recovery.
In more serious cases, long-term effects from smoke exposure or physical injuries may require ongoing care. These impacts can influence how compensation is evaluated. Medical records and expert opinions often play a role in explaining future needs.
In the aftermath of an apartment building fire, some people speak with a personal injury lawyer to better understand their situation. A lawyer can examine investigation findings, insurance policies, and medical documentation and explain how responsibility may be evaluated.
If you or a loved one was injured or displaced by an apartment building fire in New Jersey, help is available. At Garces, Grabler & Lebrocq, we work with injured victims affected by serious accidents across New Jersey.
We focus on representing victims by reviewing injury records, property damage, and insurance matters to explain available options. Our team can review your situation and explain possible next steps. To learn more, contact Garces, Grabler & Lebrocq at (888) 598-6122.
Notes: Our accident news pieces utilize secondary sources like police and fire accident reports, news articles, and eyewitness testimonies. We have not independently verified this information at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq. If you find inaccuracies, please contact us for correction. To request post-removal, please inform us, and we will promptly comply.
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