Massive Hillside Fire Destroys Businesses, Displaces Dozens

Devastating Fire in Hillside

• 🔥 A massive fire ripped through the Maple Avenue business district in Hillside, New Jersey, starting last night and burning through this morning.
• 🏢 The fire originated in an auto body shop and quickly spread to five other businesses, including a long-standing staple on the corner, a beauty supply store, and a barber shop.
• 🏘️ The blaze caused serious damage to shops on one side of the street, with crews still dousing hot spots.

Community Impact and Response

• 💔 Approximately 32 people were displaced from their homes as a result of the fire.
• 👏 Despite the devastation, there were no fatalities, thanks to the efforts of firefighters and neighbors who assisted one another.
• 🚒 Fire departments from across the area responded to aid Hillside crews.

Air Quality and Injuries

• 💨 Initial concerns about air quality in the surrounding area have subsided due to wind, though individuals with respiratory conditions are advised to wear masks.
• 🩹 Only two minor injuries were reported: minor cuts and a slight burn to a firefighter and the owner of the auto body shop.
• 🚗 Several cars parked in front of the affected businesses were also destroyed.

Ongoing Investigation

• 🔍 The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by fire marshals.
• 💬 Residents expressed shock and sadness, noting that the affected stores had been community staples for decades.