06/11/2026
This morning, at sunrise, the Bergenfield Fire Department was requested to send a ladder truck to Englewood Cliffs for a multiple-alarm commercial structure fire.
Deputy Chief Kneisler responded along with Ladder 1 and a crew of five volunteer firefighters. While en route, Bergenfield units were redirected from the firehouse to the scene. Although initially assigned as the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT), the ladder company was quickly put to work.
The crew first assisted with opening exterior walls to access fire that was spreading through concealed spaces. They were then assigned to interior operations, working alongside an engine company from the City of Englewood to open up walls and ceilings inside the building.
After a short break, members were reassigned to the upper roof portion of the building, where they cut a large ventilation hole. The fire did eventually brake through the roof. Ladder 1 then deployed its aerial ladder with pre-piped waterway, operating as an elevated master stream while being supplied by Englewood Cliffs Engine 1 working in conjunction with the Englewood Cliffs Tower Ladder.
Deputy Chief Kneisler and the crew of Ladder 1 operated at the scene for nearly six hours before being released by Englewood Cliffs Command.
While operating out of town, firefighters from the career side of the department responded to West Main Street and North Demarest Avenue for an overturned vehicle. The occupant was assisted from the vehicle and treated by the Bergenfield Volunteer Ambulance Corps. A small fuel spill was also mitigated.
