On Novermber 13th,2003 apx 0645 hours, Newark FD recieved numerous reports of a fire at 99 5th Street at Sussex Ave. Upon arrival heavy fire was showing on the top floor from side A,C, and D extending into the cockloft of a 5 story brick OMD. Heavy fire was was blowing out across Sussex Avenue over I-280. The fire was being fead by 45-50 Mph winds. NJ State Police had to shut down I-280 east bound.
The DC1 struck the 2nd and 3rd Alarm ordering all engines to bring in water. As heavy fire broke through the roof, DC1 ordered the fire building evacuated. Six ladder pipes were set up on all corners of the fire building. Low water pressure and strong winds hampered the firefighters through out the blaze.
Mutual Aid was activated bringing in Essex County Companies to cover the city. This fire building was the scene of a 2nd Alarm fire last week.
