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Explosion at Hillside, N.J., Auto Body Shop Triggers Multi-Alarm Fire, Displaces Dozens

Officials say flammable chemicals plus a ruptured gas line intensified the blaze, prompting air-quality checks plus a formal cause investigation.

Overview

  • At least six businesses along Maple Avenue were destroyed and three nearby homes were damaged, according to officials.
  • Roughly 32 residents were forced from their homes overnight as thick, toxic smoke spread through the neighborhood.
  • The shop owner and at least one firefighter were treated for minor injuries, and the mayor reported no fatalities.
  • Residents were urged to stay indoors with windows closed as crews prepared to monitor air quality due to burning chemicals and tires.
  • The response rose to at least five alarms, with the mayor saying it reached six, as mutual-aid departments and the Red Cross assisted while investigators work to determine the cause.