Hillside, NJ Fire: Auto Body Shop Explosion Sparks Massive Blaze, Displaces Residents

Fire Outbreak and Explosion

• 💥 A massive fire erupted in Hillside, New Jersey, after an explosion at an auto body shop on Tuesday night.
• 🔥 The blaze quickly escalated to a six-alarm fire, spreading to numerous storefronts and damaging several homes.

Hazardous Air Quality and Evacuations

• ☣️ Firefighters are still on the scene battling hot spots, with lingering smoke deemed toxic due to burned chemicals and tires.
• 🏠 Residents are advised to keep windows closed and remain indoors due to hazardous air quality concerns.
• ⚠️ Approximately 31 residents have been displaced, with the Red Cross providing temporary shelter and assistance.

Extent of Damage and Investigation

• 🏢 At least six businesses were destroyed, including a flower shop, hair salon, and supermarket.
• 🏘️ Several homes also sustained damage, making this one of the worst fires in Hillside in nearly two decades.
• 🔍 The exact cause of the explosion inside the auto body shop remains under investigation.

Firefighting Challenges

• 🚒 Firefighters faced significant challenges due to multiple flammable chemicals present in the auto body shop.
• ⛽ A ruptured gas line also contributed to the fire, providing additional fuel.
• 🤕 Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in the incident.