Dunellen Defender Fire Company #1

04/02/2026

This morning at approximately 10:30 am, the Dunellen Borough Police Department and Dunellen Fire Department were dispatched to the 100 Block of New Market Road for a structure fire. Communications reported that they were receiving multiple calls reporting the back of the house was heavily involved in fire. Based on the initial reports, a Second Alarm was immediately transmitted. Dunellen Police arrived on scene and confirmed the working fire and that all occupants were safely evacuated.

Mutual aid was immediately received from Green Brook Volunteer Fire Company, Middlesex Boro Fire Department, New Market Fire Department and South Plainfield Volunteer Fire Department. Hackensack Meridian-JFK University Medical Center EMS, South Plainfield EMS and Dunellen Rescue Squad provided EMS and firefighter rehab services. North Stelton Volunteer Fire Company stood by in our firehouse to cover any other emergency calls in Dunellen.

The fire was brought under control within 2.5 hours and there were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Middlesex County Fire Marshall's Office.

Dunellen OEM and the American Red Cross New Jersey Region are assisting the displaced families from the residence.

Thank you to the Dunellen American Legion Post 119 Dunellen NJ for opening your doors to allow firefighter rehab services and supporting all of our emergency responders.

Attached photos and videos are provided courtesy of 280 Fire Photography

Borough of Dunellen, NJ

03/08/2026

We have received messages from concerned residents asking how to help those displaced from the recent fire. Please see the message from the Borough of Dunellen, NJ and Mayor Jason F. Cilento with local groups The Carol Fund and Dunellen PTO organizing efforts.

03/07/2026

Thank you Caleb Maistrow for sharing these photos of last nights fire on Front St.

03/07/2026

On March 6, 2026 at approximately 9:54pm, the Dunellen Fire Department was dispatched to a possible structure fire in the 300 Block of Front St. Upon our Chief’s arrival, heavy smoke was found throughout the second floor. As a 360 of the building was started, fire self ventilated from the attic. A second alarm was immediately transmitted. Dunellen Police confirmed all occupants were evacuated.

Upon arrival of fire crews, an interior attack was attempted, however conditions continued to deteriorate and operations turned defensive. Elevated master streams were deployed and the roof eventually collapsed.

Crews continued to operate until approximately 0500 hrs when the fire appeared to be extinguished. The cause is under investigation by the Middlesex County Fire Marshal.

Units from Dunellen Fire, Dunellen Police, Dunellen Rescue, Dunellen DPW and Dunellen OEM were on scene. Mayor Jason F. Cilento and Business Administrator Miller were also on scene.

Dunellen OEM established a reception center for the several displaced families and are working with the Red Cross for assistance.

The fire ultimately extended to a Third Alarm bringing the below units to assist:

Green Brook Fire Department
Middlesex Fire Department
New Market Fire Department
South Plainfield Fire Department
North Stelton Fire Department
Arbor Fire Department
River Road Fire Department
Metuchen Fire Department
Holmes Marshall Fire Department
Milltown Fire Department
Middlesex County Fire Marshal’s Office
Middlesex County Fire Coordinators

02/23/2026

Our volunteer members are currently standing by in the firehouse to ensure quick response to any emergencies.

Please remember, we need your help to ensure hydrants are kept clear.

02/22/2026

Important Storm preparation and parking information from Borough of Dunellen, NJ and Mayor Jason F. Cilento

02/21/2026

Reminder-If you have a fire hydrant on or near your property, please take a minute to clear 3ft around the hydrant. Every minute counts during a fire and delays from accessing a hydrant could be catastrophic.

02/21/2026

Due to the potential for adverse weather conditions tomorrow, we will be postponing our movie fundraiser. A new date will be posted soon.

02/20/2026

After many years of not running, and surviving the firehouse fire, Old Engine 1 is operational once again and home. Next step is restoration from the smoke and heat damage. Thank you C.E.S. Towing for getting it running again.

02/05/2026

Our thoughts and prayers go out to our brother’s and sister’s of the Camden Fire Officers Local #2578 on the Line of Duty Death of a member of the Camden City Fire Department.

01/28/2026