Massive Fire Engulfs Multiple Businesses in Hillside, New Jersey

Hillside Fire Erupts

• 🔥 A massive fire broke out in Hillside, New Jersey, engulfing multiple businesses.
• 📍 The blaze started at an auto body shop on Maple Avenue and spread to six other businesses.
• ⚠️ Firefighters expressed concern over chemicals in the air, urging residents to stay off the streets due to toxic smoke.

Impact and Displacement

• 🏠 The fire resulted in 31 people being displaced from their homes, with the Red Cross providing care.
• 🏢 Businesses impacted included a flower shop, barber shop, bodega, and the auto body shop where the fire originated.
• 🚫 Residents were advised to stay out of the Hillside area due to the intense smoke, which caused eye irritation and coughing.

Firefighting Efforts

• 🚒 The fire reached five alarms and was still ongoing, with firefighters expected to work through the night.
• 💥 Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion shortly after the flames became visible.
• 🧪 Concerns about air quality are significant due to the potential burning of multiple chemicals at the auto body shop.