3-alarm fire in Monsey draws large response from emergency crews
Firefighters battled heavy smoke and difficult basement conditions at a Remsen Avenue property; all occupants escaped safely, officials say.
An investigation is underway into what caused a fire at 161 Remsen Ave. in Monsey, which drew dozens of first responders on Wednesday.
Dark smoke poured from the building as firefighters entered to battle the conditions. According to Monsey Fire Chief Hugh Jacobson, the fire was located in the basement.
Jacobson said the response was challenging because the basement had no windows and was filled with clutter and beds.
He praised the work of the crews, saying, "Our firefighters are the best. They're amazing. They did a great job on a very difficult fire, under difficult conditions."
Fire departments from across Rockland County assisted, working for more than an hour to bring the fire under control.
Jacobson noted the importance of the mutual aid effort, saying, "We got a lot of help from the surrounding fire departments as well today. Just because of the size of the fire and size of the building. Everyone really did a great job to work together."
Everyone inside the building was able to get out safely, the chief said. One firefighter was seen receiving oxygen at the scene with assistance from members of the Spring Hill Ambulance Corps and is expected to be OK.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire. News 12 has reached out to Ramapo officials for additional information and is awaiting a response.
Other reports state the home was being used as a rental property.
