Vacant Building Burns One Last Time in Orange

Photo by Bill Tompkins – www.BTFirephotos.com

Photo by Bill Tompkins – www.BTFirephotos.com

Photo by Bill Tompkins – www.BTFirephotos.com

Photo by Bill Tompkins – www.BTFirephotos.com

Photo by Bill Tompkins – www.BTFirephotos.com
ORANGE, NJ - A large three-story mill building that had been vacant for many years, and the scene of multiple blazes, went out in spectacular fashion on August 25th.
At approximately 3:30 A.M., Orange fire units were sent to 540 Mitchell St. As units pulled out of the Central Ave. firehouse, heavy fire and smoke was visible. On arrival, a third-alarm was sounded for fire on all floors and through the roof of the 75’ X 150’ structure. Companies immediately went defensive with multiple lines, deck guns, and elevated master streams. What was left inside the building from previous fires and years of neglect burned quickly. In less than 15 minutes the heavy fire was knocked down.
A large part of the 'D' wall collapsed as units operated. All members had set up a collapse zone and a PAR confirmed there were no injuries. As the sun rose some mutual aid began to be released. By 9:00 A.M., all companies were back in service with the exception of one engine and one truck that continued to hit hot spots. What is left of the building is expected to be taken down in the near future.