7-alarm fire in Paterson, New Jersey destroys more than a dozen homes and businesses

PATERSON, New Jersey — A devastating seven-alarm fire in Paterson, New Jersey, left families homeless and businesses destroyed Sunday morning.

Residents said the fire at 195 Broadway started around midnight, but firefighters continued to douse the building with water well after sunrise.

Authorities said the fire was severe and difficult to contain, and help was requested from several firefighting units across the area.

“I was taking a shower. I'm leading someone screaming, 'There's a fire! Call 911! We need water!'” a frightened neighbor told CBS New York. “I panicked, let my kids know and we ran away and left everything behind. We lost everything, we tried to start over, and it's like we lost everything again .”

Building completely destroyed

The roof collapsed and destroyed the second floor, leaving the building completely destroyed.

There were at least 15 apartments on the second floor, according to the Red Cross. Several small businesses, including an insurance agency, a hair salon and a restaurant area, were located on the first floor.

The Red Cross said it was helping six displaced families.

There has been no word of any injuries.

The investigation is looking into the causes of the fire.