Flames erupted just after 1 a.m. Tuesday inside the Evergreen Court For Adults in Lafayette Street.
Between 20 and 25 residents were rescued by firefighters who described them as a “chaotic scene”. Some are treated.
One was pronounced dead at the hospital.
A portion of the building collapsed when firefighters battled the blaze. One firefighter was briefly trapped in the burning structure.
Two firefighters were injured. One is being admitted to Westchester Medical Center and another has been treated and released at Hackensack University Medical Center.
One of the firefighters apparently had a medical condition, possibly a heart attack.
Many displaced residents were taken in buses to the nearby facilities where they are cared for.
Officials are now trying to take into account all the residents, even though they “believe most are accounted for,” said Christopher Kear, Rockland County coordinator.
“We believe it is, but once again we are double checking, we are doing three times to make sure,” Kear said.
The fire was still out of control six hours later. Firefighters are still struggling with a ton of hot spots and struggling with water supply issues.
The building is a total loss.
Once the fire is dead, K9 and other specialized units will search the fire debris for possible victims.
The facility provides assisted care, nursing home facilities and ongoing care for older adults.
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