Hillside, NJ Fire: Dozens Displaced After Explosions at Auto Repair Shop

Devastating Fire in Hillside, New Jersey

• 🔥 A large, six-alarm fire erupted Tuesday night at an auto repair shop on Maple Avenue in Hillside, New Jersey.
• 💥 The fire was triggered by explosions, which were captured on a neighbor's doorbell camera.
• 💨 Chemicals and tires at the auto shop burned, releasing a toxic cloud of smoke that prompted nearby residents to stay indoors with windows closed.

Impact on Residents and Businesses

• 🏘️ 32 residents were displaced by the fire, requiring assistance from the Red Cross to find temporary housing.
• 🏢 Five small businesses were destroyed, including a flower shop, a barber shop, and a bodega.
• 💔 The owner of Vibe Barber Shop expressed that while it's a tragic situation, material things can be replaced, and he is grateful his family and employees were unharmed.

Fire Response and Investigation

• 🚒 The fire burned for hours, spreading quickly to neighboring properties.
• 🧑‍🚒 Three people were injured, including two firefighters, but all are expected to recover.
• 🔬 The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
• 🌬️ Air quality concerns due to smoke were resolved by Wednesday morning, with Union County Hazmat confirming good air quality.