Crime & Safety

Cause of Division Avenue Deck Fire Still Unknown [UPDATE]

Firefighters say they don't know what caused the fire which destroyed the back deck of a Division Avenue home in Hasbrouck Heights Friday. An investigation continues.

UPDATE 7:15 p.m. -  The cause of a fire which destroyed the backyard deck of a Division Avenue home Friday afternoon has yet to be determined and remains under investigation, firefighters said.

The fire broke out just shortly before 5 p.m. in the backyard of the home. Fire Chief Richard Giarratana said 99 percent of the damage was to the exterior. One window was broken due to the heat of the flames, he said.

No one was home at the time of the fire, said owner Brian Inglesby. He said thankfully no one was hurt.

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Inglesby said he was told the fire started in the grass and spread to the deck.

"Nothing like this ever happened to me before," he said while taking in the scene as firefighters surrounded the property and fire trucks lined up all along Division Avenue as crowds of neighbors stood watch.

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Young Michael Cutruzzula, who lives next door, said he was in his room playing games when he smelled smoke and looked out the window towards his neighbors' home. 

"I saw their deck and back of their house in flames," said Michael. The youngster woke up his father John immediately. They attempted to put the fire out but then called the fire department.

The 2-alarm fire brought out mutual aid from Lodi, Wallington, Wood-Ridge and Moonachie. Carlstadt and Moonachie First Aid were also on hand.

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