A late‑night fire in Norton has displaced about a dozen residents and damaged several buildings on Perkins Drive.
Valley Waters Mayor Randy McKnight said a house, garage, shed, and a four‑unit apartment building were destroyed in the fire Thursday night.
He said a second apartment building is still standing but has been vacated while it is checked for smoke and possible structural damage.
McKnight said the displaced group includes adults, children and several pets. He said no injuries were reported and everyone was able to get out safely.
Eight fire departments responded, with an estimated 60 firefighters on scene.
McKnight said crews drew water from the Kennebecasis River and worked in strong winds that made the fire difficult to control.
He said an excavator was also brought in to pull collapsing structures away from the building that was saved.
The mayor said the municipality is working with the landlord to identify what each displaced resident needs.
Donations are being collected at the Valley Waters municipal office and at a store in Sussex owned by the landlord.
McKnight said community groups, local businesses and residents from across the region have already stepped in to help.
He said the long‑term challenge will be finding housing, as the apartments that burned were older and more affordable.
Fire investigators and the fire marshal’s office are still working to determine the cause.
