E-Bike Explodes, Sets Fire To Building At Gas Station In Somerset County

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — An electronic bike was parked and charging when it caught fire and exploded at a Hillsborough gas station on Wednesday night, according to Hillsborough Twp Station 37 Fire.

At 10:28 p.m., Hillsborough Police and Firefighters were called for a reported electronic bike fire at the BP Gas Station, 414 Route 206.

"Reports continued that the bike was on fire, exploded, and the structure was on fire where it was parked while charging," said the fire department.

Firefighters found the E-bike was still smoldering with high heat seen on Thermal Cameras. Battery parts fell from the bike and continued to ignite, releasing sparks, heat, and toxic gases, said the fire department.

Police officers were able to put out the flame with a fire extinguisher, said Hillsborough Police Captain Scott W. Mc Carthy.

Somerset County Hazmat helped to disassemble the remaining parts and batteries for safe disposal.

Nothing was found to be suspicious and no injuries were reported, said Mc Carthy.

The fire department is sharing some important safety reminders related to the popularity of these lithium-ion powered battery devices:

• Never leave the battery charging unattended
• Do not store or charge near exits
• Only use a charger from the manufacturer
• Only purchase devices with UL listing
• Any time a battery is hot, swells or smells, remove it fromthe building
• Avoid purchasing or using “off brand” batteries. If they are inexpensive, avoid them.
• Dispose of any battery that is damaged or gets wet
• Do not dispose of batteries in the normal trash

Responding units included Hillsborough Fire District, Somerset County Hazmat, Hillsborough Police, and Hillsborough OEM.

The Hillsborough Twp Station 37 Fire is made up of volunteers. For more information or to volunteer, visit facebook.com/Station37Fire.

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