More Stories






Ramapo code enforcers issued a stop work order, violations and revoked a building permit one day after a fire damaged a multifamily home in Monsey.
It took 10 fire departments to quell the three-alarm fire at 14 Jeffrey Place on Sunday night. Four units were damaged.
News 12 learned from Supervisor Michael Specht that a unit owner had originally applied for a permit to expand but was told he would need a zoning variance and permission from the other units. The unit owner then withdrew his application and reapplied to only remodel the kitchen and bathrooms.
After the fire, inspectors found work had been done beyond the scope of the permit including work that would be needed to expand the building.
Ramapo police stated that the fire may have been accidental because of welding done earlier in the day. Ultimately, the Rockland Sheriff's Fire Investigation Unit will determine the cause.
The Monsey fire chief says the weather and the odd construction layout made fighting the flames challenging. He thanks all the first responder agencies for their help.
No one was injured and displaced families are being helped.