Newark Boy Dies In Fire Despite Dad’s Rescue Attempt: UPDATED

NEWARK, NJ — A 7-year-old boy died in a house fire in Newark on Thursday morning, despite his father’s attempts to get back inside the home and save him, authorities said.

Firefighters responded to a blaze at a three-story home at 65 Astor Street around 4:50 a.m., according to the Newark Department of Public Safety.

Authorities said the deceased child’s father escaped through the front door. He then attempted to re-enter the property via the roof of an adjacent home at 67 Astor Street. Firefighters rescued him with the use of a ground ladder.

Firefighters located the boy’s body on the third floor of the home, authorities said.

The fire extended to two nearby homes at 63 and 67 Astor Street before it was placed under control at 5:15 a.m., officials said.

The building where the fire began, 65 Astor Street, was occupied by two adults and three children. Emergency responders transported them to University Hospital for treatment.

The property at 63 Astor Street experienced minor fire damage through the adjoining wall, authorities said.

Three families have been affected by the blaze; three adults and four children were relocated, authorities stated.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the cause and origin of the fire. No additional information was immediately available.

On Friday, prosecutors identified the deceased boy as Sahir Hartfield, 7.

A family member has launched an online fundraiser for the grieving family, which can be seen here.

It reads:

"Today an unexpected fire took place at my niece and her significant other's Newark home, leaving her and her children with absolutely NOTHING ... they lost everything. Materialistic items can be replaced, but this fire took her 7-year-old's life. I’m asking for any donation to help her family with food, clothing, and funeral service costs. All donations are appreciated and no donation is to small. I thank you all in advance and ask you keep my family in prayer."

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