Hackensack, N.J. — October 30 — At 10:33 a.m. on October 26, the Hackensack Fire Department responded to a fire alarm and complaints of smoke at Riverside Square Mall. First responders and mall security discovered a fire in the back of the Free People apparel store, forcing an upgrade to the assignment. Under the supervision of Deputy Chief P. Greco, the 1st Platoon got the crisis under control by performing searches, eliminating hot spots, and stretching more than 500 feet of Engine 5 hose. Two sprinklers kept the fire under control, but surrounding stores suffered water and smoke damage.

Fire Prevention, the Hackensack Building Department, and mall management worked promptly to contain the situation, reset systems, and reopen the mall. The fire is still being investigated, but it does not appear to be suspicious. While units remained committed at the mall, Deputy Chief J. Derevyanik, Engine 2, and Rescue 2 responded to an overturned vehicle on South Summit Avenue, demonstrating the department’s ability to handle simultaneous emergencies across the city.