An Atlantic City family is without their home after an early morning fire Friday.
Amirah Washington said she was asleep when the fire started in the kitchen at about 3 a.m.
"When I woke up we were all covered in black smoke," the mother of five told BreakingAC.
Her aunt was asleep upstairs.
The two women and five children — ages 12, 6, 4, 3 and 1 — were able to get out safely.
Firefighters were called to the home at 509 Melrose Ave., with Engines 7 and 1, Ladder 1 and Rescue 1 responding, Fire Chief Scott Evans said. Battalion Chief Kenton Brookings was in charge of the scene.
"Companies made an aggressive interior attack, utilizing water extinguishers to confine the fire to area of origin," Evans said. "Crews conducted overhaul operations, opening up ceilings and checking the attic space for extension. No additional fire was found."
The American Red Cross was notified to help as the home is not inhabitable, he said.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family.
Washington said anything will help, including clothing for her children.
She said the kitchen is completely destroyed.
The family has lived in the home since 2023.
