Massive Explosion Sparks 5-Alarm Blaze Injuring 2, Obliterating NJ Businesses, Homes

HILLSIDE, NJ — Two people were hurt, including one firefighter, and at least 30 people are homeless after a large explosion at an autobody shop Tuesday evening, according to CBS News

The main fire is out but residents are still being urged to stay indoors due to the air being toxic after the large amount of tires and chemicals that burned, CBS reports.

Hillside Mayor Dahlia Vertreese says this is the second-worst fire in the community in nearly 20 years. She goes on to add that "the entire shopping section" in the area has been destroyed.

"Everytime they go in the building, they have to come outside and get medical treatment to make sure they are ok," Vertreese said of the firefighters battling the fire.

According to Vertreese, the fire broke out at around 7 p.m. at the corner of Maple Avenue and Conklin Avenue. It then spread and damaged at least six nearby businesses.

Mary Dawkins with the Hillside Office of Emergency Management says three homes were also damaged.

"An amazing firefighting effort saved the homes themselves," Dawkins said. "It would have been a lot more than three, especially with the magnitude of this fire."

The firefighter and an employee at the body shop were left with non-serious injuries.

"To say that we have two minor injuries and no loss of life...we are blessed for that," Dawkins added. "We just have to work on rebuilding at this time."

The Red Cross is assisting on scene with those who are now homeless.

The story is developing. Check back with Patch for updates.