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Hudson was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center where he was pronounced dead, Mayor Adrian Mapp said at a press conference outside City Hall. Three other firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center, city officials said.
How Hudson died is still under investigation, Mapp said, saying he either fell through the floor or fell down the stairs of the home. There were 10 occupants of the home at the time of the blaze, officials said.
Hudson joined the department in Dec. 2021. He had three children, officials said.
"Firefighter Hudson...exemplified the utmost courage of a dedicated first responder," Councilman Robert Graham said. "This young man sacrificed his own life to save the life of others."
Mapp said this was his worst day since he took office 10 years ago, as Hudson's death is the first time a Plainfield firefighter was killed in action.
"Firefighter Hudson was not just a member of the Plainfield Fire Department, he was a beloved son and a cherished colleague," Mapp said. "He was a friend to many. This tragedy has cast a shadow over our city."
Gov. Phil Murphy announced flags will be lowered to half-staff in Hudson's honor.
"The tragic loss of this courageous young man is a reminder of the great risks our firefighters face every day in the line of duty," Murphy said. "We owe a debt of gratitude to all of the brave firefighters, like Firefighter Marques Hudson, who serve our state."
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, Mapp said.
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