North Branch and Readington Fire Companies were dispatched to 3372 Rt. 22 on a report of a structure fire with entrapment. Upon calling in service, Deputy 49 was advised that PD on location were confirming the working fire and reporting a person trapped in basement unable to get out. Engine 498 arrived on location and found heavy fire on the first floor and basement of a 2 story multiple dwelling. 498's crew stretched a 1.75 preconnect into the front door and initiated an aggressive interior attack, but were unable to make entry into the basement. Engine 492 arrived and crews took a second handline into the building to backup 498, however due to worsening fire conditions, crews were ordered out of the building. Crews then darkened down the bulk of the fire from the exterior and made a push through the rear basement entrance, encountering heavy fire and zero visibility. Crews led by Capt 49 and Lt 49-1 were unable to complete the primary search of the basement as a partial collapse of the 1st floor kitchen occurred forcing them from the building. Once all heavy fire was knocked down, Chief 34 and Capt. 49 were able to re-enter the basement and locate the victim. The victim was removed with the help of DC 49, DC 32 and Lt 49-1 and was immediately turned over to EMS personnel. Shortly after the victim was removed, the fire was placed under control. Unfortunately, the victim could not be resuscitated and was pronounced by Somerset Medical Center ALS. Units working the fire were Companies 49, 32, 21 FAST, Branchburg EMS, Whitehouse Rescue, Somerville/HIllsborough EMS Rehab, Branchburg PD, Branchburg OEM, Somerset County Prosecutor's Office, and last but not least, Chief 34. The Officers and Members of Station 49 wish to express their condolences to the family and friends of the fire victim.