JERSEY CITY, N.J. (AP) - Authorities say a fast-moving fire destroyed four homes in a northern New Jersey community, leaving 36 people homeless but causing no injuries to residents.
The fire in Jersey City broke out around 4 a.m. Friday near a home on Wade Street and quickly spread to three other nearby residences. Authorities say the flames apparently were being fed by a leaky natural gas line.
Firefighters had to deal with hoarding conditions in some of the homes, where squatters apparently were staying, along with strong, gusty winds that hampered their efforts.
Two firefighters were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and returned to work.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.