On Monday, March 9, 2026, at approximately 7:00 AM, the Jenkintown Fire Department and Jenkintown Police Department responded to a fire alarm activation at 603 West Ave and 605 West Ave. Fire and smoke were found coming from a second-floor apartment at 603 West Ave. Occupants of the neighboring building at 605 West Ave had contacted Montgomery County Dispatch to report the fire.
Jenkintown Fire Department, with assistance from Abington Fire Company, Edge Hill Fire Company, McKinley Fire Company, Rockledge Fire Company, and Weldon Fire Company, quickly extinguished the fire. One cat was rescued and resuscitated at the scene by Second Alarmers Rescue Squad personnel and transported to a local veterinarian by its owner. Sadly, one cat perished in the fire. No human injuries have been reported.
There was extensive damage to the affected apartment at 603 West Ave, as well as smoke and water damage to the apartments at 605 West Ave and the first-floor businesses at both addresses. The Red Cross has responded and is assisting displaced residents with lodging and recovery.
The fire remains under investigation by the Jenkintown Fire Marshal, assisted by the Abington, Cheltenham, and Lower Moreland Fire Marshals.
Questions or concerns may be directed to the Jenkintown Fire Marshal or the Jenkintown Police Department at (215) 884-1202. If you have an emergency, dial 911.