Driver escapes moments before car erupts in flames on busy new jersey roadway
courtesy of Manchester PD FB page

Driver escapes moments before car erupts in flames on busy New Jersey roadway

June 10, 2026
1 min read

A morning commute took a dramatic turn when a vehicle suffered mechanical trouble and became engulfed in fire along County Road 539

MANCHESTER TWP., N.J. — A New Brunswick man escaped unharmed after his car burst into flames on a busy Ocean County roadway Tuesday morning, prompting a temporary road closure as firefighters battled the blaze.

Police said officers responded at approximately 6:39 a.m. to the area of County Road 539 and McMahon Avenue following reports of a vehicle fire.

When officers arrived, they found a black 2006 Toyota Camry fully engulfed in flames.

Authorities confirmed the vehicle was unoccupied and established a safety perimeter while firefighters responded.

Driver escapes moments before car erupts in flames on busy new jersey roadway
Photo: driver escapes moments before car erupts in flames on busy new jersey roadway

County Road 539 was temporarily shut down in both directions as members of the Whiting Volunteer Fire Company worked to bring the fire under control.

According to police, the driver, identified as 28-year-old Irving Delacruzchino of New Brunswick, reported experiencing engine failure while traveling southbound on County Road 539.

After pulling over, he noticed smoke coming from the front of the vehicle and exited immediately.

No passengers were inside the car, and no injuries were reported.

Investigators said the fire does not appear suspicious and was likely caused by an electrical issue.

The Whiting Volunteer Fire Company extinguished the blaze and reopened the roadway after the scene was secured.


Key Points

  • A driver escaped safely before a Toyota Camry became engulfed in flames.
  • The fire temporarily shut down County Road 539 in Manchester Township.
  • Investigators believe an electrical issue likely caused the fire.
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

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Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

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