2 killed in Union, NJ house fire
UNION, New Jersey (WABC) -- Two people were killed in a fire at a two-family house in Union Sunday.
The fire broke out around 5:30 a.m. on the 900 block of Grandview Avenue.
The top floor of the house sustained extensive damage. According to authorities, both the roof and second floor collapsed.
Firefighters worked desperately to save the two people trapped on the upper floor of the home, but they perished in the flames.
"We started making entry right after, searched through the windows to try and make a rescue of the bodies," said Union Fire Chief Greg Ricciardi. "But due to the high heat of the fire and the conditions... we were unable to do so."
Residents say the firefight started before first responders arrived.
"They were trying to put the fire out with a garden hose," a resident said.
A man who lived on the bottom floor of the home suffered injuries as well. The extent of his injuries was not immediately made clear.
Neighborhood residents say they felt their houses shake after a sound like an explosion rung out.
"I heard the bang, that's what woke me up," said one neighbor.
No other injuries have been reported. The identities of the two people killed in the fire have not yet been released.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Authorities are using drones to canvas what remains of the house.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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