Trenton fire leaves 18-year-old student dead, 22 people without home

Trenton high school student killed in fire

Joseph Kokulo, a JROTC cadet at Trenton Central High school, was killed in a fire that burned seven homes in Trenton. At least one other person was critically injured.

TRENTON, NJ - A late-night fire in Trenton has claimed the life of a local high school student and left several others injured, prompting a large-scale emergency response.

Trenton fire leaves one dead, 16 people without home in New Jersey

A devastating fire on N. Olden Ave. in Trenton has left one person dead and several families in need of assistance, on-scene sources tell FOX 29. Full story: https://www.fox29.com/news/trenton-fire-leaves-one-dead-16-people-without-home-sources

Deadly row house fire

What we know:

The fire broke out just before 11:00 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 19. Viewer footage showed flames engulfing the row houses, and crews worked to control the blaze, finally extinguishing it by 1 a.m. Despite their efforts, one person died, and 22 people were displaced.

The Red Cross's quick response provided crucial support to those affected.

"Our volunteers responded to a home fire on N. Olden Ave. in Trenton and assisted 16 people in 3 families with Red Cross emergency assistance for things like temporary lodging, food, clothing & other immediate needs," said Red Cross New Jersey.

The student who died was identified as 18-year-old Joseph Kokulo. Kokulo was identified as a member of the JROTC program at Trenton Central High School. Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora called the fire "devastating," adding that Kokulo was preparing for Saturday's homecoming parade. His uniform was still laid out for the parade when the fire trapped him on the second floor. Gusciora said there was a tribute to Kokulo at the homecoming game.

Row house fire Trenton NJ. (Photo of scene by CARLOS RAMIREZ NJ NEWS)

Support and recovery efforts

Local perspective:

Community members are encouraged to stay informed about ways to help those impacted by the fire. Local organizations may offer additional support and resources in the coming days.

State, county investigators and local officials are on the scene to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unknown. The community is rallying around those affected as recovery efforts continue.

"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the brave firefighters and first responders who acted swiftly under extremely dangerous conditions to contain this fire and prevent further loss of life. I also want to thank the neighboring departments who answered the call without hesitation," Trenton Mayor W. Reed Gusciora said. "This is a heartbreaking day for our community. To the families affected, especially to those mourning the loss of a beloved son, friend, and student, please know that the entire city stands with you in grief and support."