2 dead, 7 injured, dozens displaced in 3-alarm Camden apartment fire

CAMDEN, N.J. - Two people are confirmed dead after flames swept through an apartment complex in Camden, New Jersey early Sunday morning after authorities say a fire was intentionally set. 

The Camden County Prosecutor's Office announced murder charges against 34-year-old Brandon Adams, a homeless man, in connection with the fire.  

The fire on the 3400 block of Cramer Street also injured seven others as residents and first responders say they could only watch as some still inside were forced to jump from the windows of upper levels.

"It was devastating seeing people jump out the window. I've never seen anything like that in my life, never," said resident Erica Diaz.

Fatal apartment fire on Cramer Street in Camden

Diaz was the first person out of the complex Sunday morning.

"Black wasn’t even dark enough. It was so dark in there, very dark. All you hear is howling from the fire ripping the walls!" Diaz said.

Camden Fire Chief Michael Harper says dozens of families have been displaced and the Red Cross is helping as many as 45 people.

Fatal apartment fire on Cramer Street in Camden

One firefighter was reported to have suffered injuries during that fight.

For Diaz, seeing her neighbors jump for their lives is a sight she'll never be able to forget.

"Seeing the people jump, you just hear them fall. Even though it's three floors, you like hear them. You heard it. It's like a big boom," she said. "It was scary."

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