NEWARK, N.J. – Two young children were killed in a house fire in Newark, New Jersey overnight, an Essex County spokesperson told FOX 5.
It happened at 26 Eckert Avenue just before midnight.
When detectives arrived, they found two young girls, ages 6 and 8, lying unresponsive on the ground. An Essex County spokesperson said they were pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses told detectives there was a birthday party for one of the girls on the second floor of the house. Witnesses also said the girls were playing with fire near a couch in the hallway.
An Essex County spokesperson said the fire started on the second floor of the house and spread to the third floor.
“We are profoundly heartbroken by the loss of two of our beloved students following this morning’s tragic fire at 26 Eckert Avenue,” Newark Public Schools Superintendent Roger Leon said in a statement. “Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to their families during this unimaginable time of grief.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
This story is developing. Stay with FOX 5 NY for more updates.
