6-year-old girl killed in Bayonne, New Jersey house fire

A 6-year-old girl was killed in a fire that destroyed a Bayonne house overnight and left several families homeless.

The fire broke out in the home on Avenue C just after midnight on Monday.

Firefighters were told a person was trapped on the second floor, but due to the heavy flames and a collapsed stairwell, they had to use ground ladders to find the young victim.

They eventually found the victim, who was deceased, and was later identified as 6-year-old Saniya Felton.

"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," said Bayonne Fire Chief Keith Weaver. "I also want to thank our brave firefighters for doing an excellent job at keeping the fire contained to the building of origin."

Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis also offered his condolences in a post on Facebook, saying in part, "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."

Four civilians and three firefighters were taken to hospitals with minor injuries, and have since been released.

The Red Cross is providing emergency assistance for seven people in three families to help with temporary lodging, food, clothing and other immediate needs.

The tragic loss of the 6-year-old girl has left her family and neighbors crushed with sadness. Her former preschool teacher comforted the Felton family, saying she would at some point, break the news to Saniya's friends who still attend the daycare.

"I'll try to be strong first. I'll try to be strong," Saniya's teacher said. "I had her since she was one and a half until she went to kindergarten."

The cause of the fire remain under investigation, but foul play is not suspected.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Prosecutor's Office at 201-915-1345.

A GoFundMe was launched to help Felton's family during this difficult time.

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