A tragic fire in Bayonne, NJ, claimed the life of 6-year-old Saniya Felton and left several families homeless. The community is mourning her loss while rallying to support her family and friends.
- A tragic fire in Bayonne, New Jersey, resulted in the death of 6-year-old Saniya Felton.
- The fire broke out at a two-story home on Avenue C, displacing multiple families and injuring seven people.
- The community has come together to mourn Saniya’s loss, with support from local officials and organizations.
Bayonne Mourns 6-Year-Old Saniya Felton
A heart-wrenching tragedy struck Bayonne, New Jersey, when a fire broke out just after midnight on Monday, claiming the life of 6-year-old Saniya Felton.
The fire started at a two-story home on Avenue C, leaving several families without a home and the entire community grieving.
The fire was first reported around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday. Firefighters were told someone was trapped on the second floor, but the flames and a collapsed stairwell made it hard for them to get in.
Despite their brave attempts using ground ladders, they found Saniya unresponsive and pronounced her dead shortly after 1 a.m. at Bayonne Medical Center.
Bayonne Fire Chief Keith Weaver expressed the collective grief, saying, “Any loss of life in a fire is tragic; however, when we see such a young person taken from our community, it is that much more difficult.”
He commended the firefighters for their valiant efforts in containing the fire to the building of origin.
Bayonne Rallies in Support and Tribute After Tragic Fire
Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis conveyed his condolences in a heartfelt Facebook post, urging the community to support Saniya’s grieving family.
“Every once in awhile, our community is rocked with heartbreaking news; however, this is when we are at our best. I am asking that everyone in Bayonne please pray for Saniya’s mom, brother, and all her family and friends as they try to hold up during this incredibly difficult time.” he wrote.
The fire resulted in minor injuries to four civilians and three firefighters, all of whom have since been released from the hospital.
The Red Cross provides emergency assistance to seven people across three families, helping with temporary lodging, food, clothing, and other immediate needs. Mary Nassim, the owner of Sweet Smiles Daycare, where Saniya once attended, shared her sorrow.
“She was so sweet and kind,” Nassim said through tears.
“Saniya would come by at least once a month to hug and thank her former teachers.”
Nassim plans to help the children from her daycare and the neighborhood create a memorial for Saniya in front of the home where she died.
Investigation Continues as Bayonne Honors Saniya
The cause of the fire is still being investigated, but foul play is not suspected. The Hudson County Regional Arson Task Force and the Bayonne Fire Department are working to find out what started the fire.
On Monday evening, neighbors and community members gathered for a vigil to honor Saniya’s memory.
Sarah Gonzalez, a local resident, recounted the chaotic scene, saying she smelled smoke and saw flames from her window before rushing to the site.
“Many neighbors came out to see if they could offer any help,” she said, describing the community’s collective effort to assist.
The tragic loss has deeply affected Saniya’s family, friends, and the Bayonne community. Her former preschool teacher prepares to break the news to Saniya’s friends.
Anyone with information regarding the tragic fire in Bayonne, NJ, is encouraged to contact the Prosecutor’s Office at 201-915-1345.
