3-alarm burns through marijuana dispensary in Paterson, injuring firefighter;
Officials are investigating to determine if the fire was set intentionally
PATERSON, New Jersey (WABC) -- A three-alarm fire that burned through a marijuana dispensary in Paterson, New Jersey, is now being investigating as a possible arson.
The flames broke out just after 6:15 a.m. Friday in the back of the two-story building on McBride Avenue near Glover Avenue.
The back part of the building is an addition to the original structure, with two businesses in the front, including the dispensary called Urban Gardens on the first floor.
There are two apartments in the back and Eyewitness News was told some of the residents jumped out of windows on the second floor to escape the flames.
Three residents suffered from smoke inhalation, and one Paterson battalion chief was hurt when the back of the building collapsed.
All four people are said to be in stable condition, but two families, a total of six people, are now without homes, and two businesses have been destroyed.
The owner of Urban Gardens says he was getting ready for a re-grand opening, but now, the items in his shop have been ruined by either smoke or water.
"I lost everything, about $200,000 worth of cannabis products," said Urban Gardens owner Carlos. "This is my community. I was born here. I have such a deep passion and love for Paterson that I don't think I'm going anywhere. I might move somewhere else, but I'm not going anywhere."
The family of one woman who lives in one of the apartments says a dog died due to smoke inhalation.
The people who live and own businesses at the building say the morning fire was no accident.
"We saw the video, the tape. We see somebody start the fire," said Edgardo Oliva, whose mother-in-law was displaced from the fire.
Officials say an investigation is now underway to determine if the fire was set intentionally.
"We're aware of possible homeless and squatters in the rear of the building," said Paterson Fire Chief Arthur Woods. "That information and video is under investigation by the Fire Prevention Bureau."
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