Plainfield Public School District Statement on Tragic Fire at 308 West Front Street
PLAINFIELD, NJ – December 1, 2025- The Plainfield Public School District is deeply saddened to learn of the devastating fire that occurred on November 30, 2025, at 308 West Front Street. We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of two members of our school community, Leonel García-Cortez and María Guaya, both district parents. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their children, family, friends, and loved ones during this unimaginable moment of grief.
As our community mourns this profound loss, the district is actively coordinating support for our affected students, families, and staff. Grief counseling and crisis response services are being provided through our Office of Student Services, with additional support available to any students or staff who may need assistance coping with this tragedy. The District is also providing transportation services to ensure that all affected students can safely and reliably attend school during this difficult time.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of two of our district parents whose lives were tragically taken in this devastating fire,” stated Rashon K. Hasan, Ed. S., Superintendent. He continued, “In Plainfield, we take care of one another, and our District is committed to wrapping our arms around these children and every family affected. We are providing essential services to ensure our students remain supported, connected, and cared for.”
The district is working collaboratively with the City of Plainfield, the American Red Cross, the United Way of Greater Union County, local faith-based organizations and community partners to ensure families receive the immediate help they need. In alignment with the City’s coordinated response, the Plainfield Public School District, in partnership with Medes Church is hosting a donation drive, currently accepting clothing donations for displaced families at the Cardinal Family Success Center located at 504 Madison Avenue. Our district staff are also assisting onsite to help ensure resources are organized, distributed, and accessible to all affected residents.
The Plainfield Public School District remains committed to supporting our students and their families as the community begins to navigate recovery. We will continue to provide services, resources, and updates in coordination with city leadership and partnering agencies.
Our thoughts remain with every resident impacted by this tragic event, and we pledge to stand beside them as Plainfield moves forward together. The district is coordinating a districtwide donation drive to support the families affected by the fire, ensuring they receive essential items and immediate relief during this difficult time.
For additional information or support, families may contact the Office of Student Services.
For more information about this story or the Plainfield Public School District, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at information@plainfield.k12.nj.us or by phone at (908) 731-4442.