Five Tragically Killed In Late Halloween Night Residential Fire In The City Of Paterson

Saturday, November 1, 2025, 10:30 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- Tragedy struck the quiet Hillcrest neighborhood in the City of Paterson late last night when a fire erupted in a home located on Emerson Avenue, claiming the lives of five people, including three children.

     According to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, on Friday, October 31, 2025, just shortly before 10:00 p.m., members of the Paterson Police Department and the Paterson Fire Department responded to multiple reports of a residential fire at 15 Emerson Avenue in the City of Paterson.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers and Firefighters observed heavy smoke and fire coming from the house. Firefighters quickly brought the fire under control despite the heavy winds. During fire suppression, Firefighters located five individuals on the second floor of the home; a 39-year-old man, a 38-year-old woman, and three children, ages fourteen, twelve, and seven, all apparently having succumbed to injuries. All five were pronounced deceased at the scene.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing as Fire Investigators continue their search for the origin and cause of the fire. 

     Anyone with additional information regarding this tragic incident is urged to contact the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org.