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The blaze broke out on South Third Street between Market and Hodgson streets around 11:30 p.m., affecting six buildings in the Borough’s historic downtown, officials said in a statement.
The buildings are mixed-use with commercial space on the first floor and residences above, authorities said. Twenty-five families or about 90 people are displaced and being assisted by Chester County Emergency Services and the American Red Cross, they added.
Fire crews from across Pennsylvania and northern Maryland have been called to help battle the blaze.
No injuries were reported.
Officials set up a command post and temporary accommodations for displaced residents at Borough Hall and at Oxford Presbyterian Church, as well as a shelter at Penns Grove Middle School.
Oxford Area Schools also canceled classes for Thursday, Sept. 14 in the wake of the blaze.
“We are saddened that so many residents, many of them with children, have been displaced by this tragedy,” said Borough Council President Kathryn Cloyd.
“We are also saddened by the destruction of some of Oxford’s most historic buildings and will do all we can to support the displaced residents and businesses.”
Union Fire Company and Oxford police responded to the scene and were assisted by " multiple state, county and regional fire agencies," including from Maryland and Delaware, the borough said.
Area residents can assist by conserving water and by avoiding the downtown area, "specifically Third Street, between Market and Hodgson Street, Niblock Alley and Locust Street," they added.
The Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting donations of cash and gift cards. To learn more, call 610-932-0740 or visit oxfordpa.org
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