On March 8, at about 0330 HRS, Kearny, N.J., firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire at Harrison and Schuyler avenues. Upon arrival of first-due units, smoke was visible from a large, three-story building that consisted of apartments over a nightclub. Mutual aid soon arrived from many departments.

The gas-fed fire, which started in the basement, quickly moved into the walls and then into upper floors, prompting additional alarms and the request for more manpower. FDNY was called mid-morning for its Hi-Ex foam unit. Two firefighters were injured when part of the second floor collapsed. They were quickly removed; their injuries were not serious. It was not until early afternoon that firefighters were able to control the fire, which had burned for 12 hours.

Photo By Bill Tompkins