GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A house fire on Thursday afternoon at 220 Laurel Place in the Cherrywood Townhomes section of Gloucester Township displaced six residents, authorities said.
Police officers and firefighters responded to the scene at approximately 1:27 p.m., finding heavy smoke coming from the rear of the home’s second floor. All residents were safely evacuated before emergency responders arrived.
Fire departments from multiple surrounding areas, including Blackwood, Erial, Lambs Terrace, Pine Hill, and Runnemede, worked together to bring the fire under control. Assistance was also provided by Inspira EMS and the Gloucester Township Office of Emergency Management.
No injuries were reported, and the displaced residents are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Blackwood Fire Department Fire Marshal, though it is not believed to be suspicious.
The fire highlights the importance of functioning smoke alarms, which authorities remind residents are critical for early warning in emergencies.