PRESS RELEASE - 7/11/2025 - Structure Fire

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JULY 11, 2025
NEWS RELEASE
STRUCTURE FIRE

North Plainfield BORO., N.J. North Plainfield Police Chief Alan McKay announced that on Friday, July 11, 2025, at approximately 1:25 am, The NPPD was dispatched to a structure fire at 489 Richard Way, North Plainfield NJ. On arrival officers observed the residence to be completely ablaze with several residents / occupants standing on the front lawn. NPPD officers were advised that one female resident was still inside the residence, possibly on the roof.
NPPD officers began rescue attempts, however the female resident was extremely frightened to leave the roof area. The NPFD also responded and were able to extend a large ladder onto the roof so the resident could be rescued. The resident who was assisted from the roof by a ladder was identified as 27 Y/O Yaritza Perez of 489 Richard Way North Plainfield NJ.
Officers confirmed that all the occupants of the home, including the family dog “Mina” made it safely out of the fire.
The Plainfield Fire Department & Watchung Fire Department also responded and assisted the NPFD in fighting the blaze until it was completely extinguished hours later.
The home was completely destroyed by the fire and the matter remains under investigation. NPFD personnel believe the fire may have started in the basement area, however the exact origin of the fire will not be known until the investigation is completed.
Chief McKay requests anyone with information relating to this incident contact the North Plainfield Police Department Criminal Investigation Division at (908) 769-2922.
NOTE: The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed.