By Rockland News Staff
NANUET, NY — A massive fire tore through eight apartments in The Peaks complex on Avalon Gardens Drive on Tuesday afternoon, leaving several residents displaced. First responders from nearly a dozen fire departments worked tirelessly to bring the blaze under control as plumes of black smoke rose over the neighborhood.
The Peaks community, formerly known as Avalon Gardens, apparently rose quickly to engulf homes. Luckily, at the moment it seems that all residents from those homes are accounted for. The damage to the residents’ homes is severe.
The fire, reported around 3:48 p.m., triggered a third alarm, drawing emergency teams from across the region, including neighboring Mahwah, New Jersey, as well as local departments such as the East Spring Valley Fire Department. Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann described the emergency response as “significant,” confirming that eight units were destroyed and a number of residents would likely need relocation.
Hoehmann, who posted updates on Facebook, assured residents that an emergency management team was on the scene to assist those affected. Locals were advised to avoid the area near Smith Road while firefighters and other responders continued their work.
Gas and electrical services were disrupted in the surrounding area, impacting approximately 1,500 customers, according to Orange & Rockland Utilities. As of 8:00 p.m., it was reported that less than 100 customers remained without service, with full restoration expected by 7:30 p.m.
Witnesses described a fast-moving fire that appeared to spread with alarming speed. Jeri Newman, a nearby resident, recalled smelling gas shortly before seeing thick smoke pouring from the building. “It just escalated so fast,” she said, visibly shaken by the destruction.
Despite the fire’s severity, no fatalities have been reported. Authorities are still investigating the cause, with some speculation over the possible involvement of a gas main, though nothing has been confirmed. Hoehmann acknowledged that contractors had been working in the area but stressed that it was “too early to tell” whether gas was a factor.
Clarkstown Police Department spokesperson Norm Peters noted that the investigation is ongoing, and authorities will provide further updates as more details emerge.
Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.