TOTOWA, N.J. – A person was injured after a vehicle exploded in the driveway of a New Jersey home early Monday, sending emergency crews rushing to a quiet residential neighborhood.
The explosion occurred shortly after 5:30 a.m. on Congressional Lane, where a black Audi was parked in front of a residence when it suddenly exploded after being started, according to emergency radio transmissions.
Dispatchers were first alerted by a resident who reported hearing the blast.
“There’s a caller on the line who says a car blew up,” a dispatcher said over emergency radio transmissions. “The caller says there’s no fire damage or anything.”
Hazardous gas may have ignited
The aftermath was documented by ABC Eyewitness News:
As firefighters and emergency medical personnel arrived, first responders began piecing together what may have caused the explosion.
“We have one injury, one car exploded,” a responder reported over the radio. “Possibly acetylene. Plumber started the car and it ignited.”
The transmissions suggest investigators believe an acetylene gas cylinder or another hazardous gas source may have ignited when the vehicle was started. Authorities have not yet officially confirmed the cause, and the incident remains under investigation.
Home, fence also damaged
The force of the explosion damaged a nearby home and a fence surrounding the property.
Images from the scene show the heavily damaged black Audi with debris scattered across the driveway and front yard.
Officials have not released the extent of the victim’s injuries, and no additional injuries were immediately reported.
Investigation underway
Fire officials and investigators are expected to determine what caused the apparent gas ignition and whether any hazardous materials were involved.
Authorities have not indicated whether criminal activity is suspected, and preliminary emergency radio traffic suggested the explosion appeared to be accidental.
Additional information, including the condition of the injured individual and the official cause of the explosion, is expected to be released as the investigation continues.