Teen Killed in Trenton, NJ, Fire That Destroyed Seven Homes

A JROTC student was killed during a major three-alarm fire in Trenton just before homecoming events at the teen's school.

Sept. 21, 2025

3 min read

L.A. Parker
The Trentonian, Trenton, N.J.
(TNS)

Sep. 20—TRENTON — An 18-year-old male student at Trenton Central High School has been confirmed as a fatality in the late Friday evening fire that destroyed seven homes in the 1200 block of North Olden Avenue near Brunswick Avenue in Trenton.

Four residents received medical care. Two were listed in stable condition and a third critical. At least 22 others were displaced and are receiving assistance from American Red Cross.

State, county investigators, Trenton Fire Department, Trenton Police Department and city code officials are on the scene. Cause is being investigated and has not yet been determined.

Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora issued the following statement Saturday:

"In the early hours of this morning, our city suffered a devastating fire on the 1200 block of North Olden Avenue. Seven homes were destroyed as a result of a three-alarm fire that drew response from multiple fire departments across the region.

"It is with deep sorrow that I confirm the tragic loss of an 18-year-old male student in this fire. Three additional individuals were injured, including one in critical condition and two who remain in stable condition. One firefighter was taken to hospital. In total, 22 residents have been displaced from their homes.

"The City of Trenton is working closely with the American Red Cross to provide immediate shelter and assistance to the families impacted. Our city's fire and police departments, state and county investigators, and the city code official are all actively engaged on scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time.

"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the brave firefighters and first responders who acted swiftly under extremely dangerous conditions to contain this fire and prevent further loss of life. I also want to thank the neighboring departments who answered the call without hesitation.

"This is a heartbreaking day for our community. To the families affected, especially to those mourning the loss of a beloved son, friend, and student, please know that the entire city stands with you in grief and support.

"We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available."

Pall on Homecoming

The student's death produced a pall on Trenton Central High School Homecoming ceremonies.

"It's a very, very sad day. We'll get through the parade then decide next steps," Hope Witter, assistant superintendent for Trenton Public Schools, said.

Trenton Public Schools Superintendent James Earle said grief counselors were on site to speak with students.

"It's tragic," Earle said. "This young man we lost is family to many other students and a friend to others. This will test the strength of our community. Our students are resilient and we will do everything to help them get through this."

The deceased student is a member of Trenton High's acclaimed JROTC program. He was supposed to march in the parade. Witter said a decision was made to allow students to march then immediately offer them counseling services ahead of a football game between the Tornadoes and West Windsor-Plainsboro.

Originally Published: September 20, 2025 at 9:58 AM EDT