Cherry Hill Firefighters Battle Smoky, Sub Freezing Fatal Dwelling Fire
Photo by Frank SaiaCHFD Squad 13 crew readies to stretch an additional handline for fire attack.
Photo by Frank SaiaCHFD FF William Lafferty directs the hose line after a defensive operation was ordered.
Photo by Frank SaiaPennsauken Acting Battalion Chief Joe Palumbo gives a report from the second floor of this working fire at 544 Main Street, Cherry Hill, NJ on January 31, 2026.
Photo by Frank SaiaCHFD FF John Springer ventilating second floor windows at the working fire at 544 Main Street, Cherry Hill, NJ on January 31, 2026.
Photo by Frank SaiaCHFD Lt. Nick Diamanti with a coating of ice while battling this working fire in sub freezing weather at 544 Main Street, Cherry Hill, NJ on January 31, 2026.
Photo by Frank SaiaCHFD FF William Lafferty in defensive mode at the working fire at 544 Main Street, Cherry Hill, NJ on January 31, 2026.
Photo by Frank SaiaCrews stretching line for fire attack at 544 Main Street, Cherry Hill, NJ on January 31, 2026.
Photo by Frank SaiaCrews transition to defensive operations at structural conditions deteriorated and fire broke through the roof.
On January 31, 2026 at approximately 2214 hours, the Camden County Fire Alarm transmitted a box for the Cherry Hill Fire Department for the report of a dwelling fire at 544 Main Street. Initial reports were of smoke and fire as well as an adult male who may be trapped. CHFD Engine 1352 was first to arrive and reported fire showing from a two story single family dwelling that was quickly spreading to the second floor. The working fire box was transmitted and brought in additional units. E-1352 quickly stretched an attack line and initiated a search for victims. Other CHFD companies arrived quickly as well as neighboring Pennsauken Engine 1132. Several lines were stretched and working. The fire quickly spread through void areas and into the roof area. Interior crews reported several holes in the floors on the first and second floor so the decision was made to withdraw the troops and move to a defensive operation. The initial primary searches, in rapidly deteriorating conditions, proved negative, but soon after, a victim was found. Companies battled the stubborn fire for over an hour before placing the fire under control. Several companies remained on location throughout the night, in icy and freezing conditions for final extinguishment. The fire is under investigation by the Cherry Hill and Camden County FMO.
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