Orange, NJ - A large three-story factory in Orange that has been vacant for several decades was struck by a multiple-alarm fire on December 7, 2020.

First due units to the building at 540 Mitchell Street at shortly before 9:30 P.M. reported a heavy smoke condition from the building and transmitted the Signal 11 working fire. The smoke was issuing from all three floors of the dilapidated building, prompting a second-alarm to be transmitted in less than 10 minutes and a third-alarm 10 minutes later.

The smoke condition and the condition of the building made finding the seat of the fire difficult. A collapse of part of the second floor caused the evacuation of the building and the taking of a PAR. All members were accounted for, and a defensive operation commenced.

Multiple lines and a ground monitor were put into operation. Metal bars on the basement windows were removed to provide access. Ladders were raised if needed. The smoke condition slowly dissipated and mutual aid began to be released after several hours. No injuries were reported and the cause has not yet been determined.

Mutual aid from Montclair, Maplewood, West Orange, Bloomfield, Irvington, South Orange, Cedar Grove, East Orange, and Livingston provided mutual aid at the scene.