On the evening of April 29, a small fire started on the first floor of the Red Hawk Parking Deck.
The fire was initially reported to students in a Red Hawk Alert at 5:20 P.M., which reported a “small fire” that was quickly extinguished. The report advised students to avoid the area to prevent interference with the Montclair Fire Department activity.
Montclair State University Police Department Chief, Timothy Fox, commented on the fire.
“On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, Montclair State University Police officers responded to a report of a vehicle emitting smoke in the Red Hawk Deck,” Fox told The Montclarion in an email. “Upon arrival, officers observed a black Toyota Corolla with its hood open and a small spark visible from the engine compartment. The spark ignited, producing a fire.”
The fire, which appeared to be contained within the car’s hood, was extinguished by officers before the fire department arrived, Fox said.
Montclair Fire Department firefighters stand around the car fire in Red Hawk Deck. The Wednesday evening fire was quickly extinguished.
Rob Ferguson | The Montclarion
“Officers immediately utilized a fire extinguisher to suppress and extinguish the flames,” Fox said. “Montclair Fire Department also responded to the scene to ensure the fire was fully extinguished. The vehicle was subsequently towed. There were no reported injuries and no damage to the structure or nearby vehicles.”
A second Red Hawk Alert was sent to students at 5:55 p.m., announcing that the fire department activity was complete and that the area was safe for return.
