Paterson Fire: Massive fire ravages apartments, businesses in New Jersey

PATERSON, N.J. (WABC) — A massive fire ravaged several apartments and businesses in Paterson, New Jersey after midnight Sunday.

The video shows several agencies responding to the building along Broadway.

A man said he was sleeping upstairs when the flames broke out.

“I started smelling smoke and I thought, 'I'm not smoking cigarettes or anything,' so I came out here and I could barely breathe when I came out here. Now I have to start all over again,” the man said. .

Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh asked for prayers as firefighters battle the seven-alarm blaze.

“Our firefighters have been battling a massive, seven-alarm fire for several hours. We appreciate their remarkable response and commend neighboring departments for their assistance. Please pray for the families who were displaced and for the resident who is currently missing. ” Sayegh said in a Facebook post.

The Red Cross said it was helping 11 people in six families. They said residents temporarily displaced from the adjacent building as a safety precaution should be able to return home Sunday once utilities are restored and firefighters deem it safe to return.

It's unclear if anyone was injured, but Mayor Sayegh said one resident is currently missing.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

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