A late-night blaze tore through a stretch of rowhomes in North Camden on Saturday, damaging three houses and sending one woman to the hospital. Flames and thick smoke drove neighbors out onto the sidewalk as firefighters fought to keep the fire from jumping further down the block, and one home was left with visible structural loss as crews wrapped up work late into the night.
Officials say the fire started around 8:30 p.m. on the 800 block of North 5th Street, where three homes were damaged and one sustained significant structural loss, according to CBS News Philadelphia. Reporters at the scene described flames pouring from a roof as firefighters attacked the blaze, and a woman was taken to the hospital with burns on her face. The fire was brought under control shortly before 10:00 p.m., and officials say the cause remains under investigation.
Emergency response and injuries
Camden fire crews, assisted by mutual-aid companies, knocked down heavy fire and searched nearby properties while police kept the block closed to traffic. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether anyone else was inside the affected homes when the fire broke out, and neighbors were urged to steer clear of the area as crews stayed on scene for overhaul. Residents described a tense, smoky night as porches filled with haze and first responders worked under floodlights to secure the row.
What residents should know
Home fires can spread with alarming speed, and working smoke alarms plus a practiced escape plan are crucial. The National Fire Protection Association notes that a typical home fire can leave families with as little as one to two minutes to get out safely, according to the CPSC. Neighbors near the scene are encouraged to check on older or vulnerable residents, keep windows closed to limit lingering smoke, and follow any guidance from Camden emergency services. Anyone with information about how the fire started is asked to contact local authorities to assist investigators.
This is a developing story and Hoodline will update as city officials release additional details and formal statements. In the meantime, authorities are urging residents to report any property damage or health concerns to Camden emergency services.
