Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File Photo

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — An electrical issue at the Silver Ridge Apartments in Toms River led to the evacuation of residents from ten apartments Tuesday evening after a smoking transformer posed significant hazards. The incident, which occurred on August 20th, prompted a multi-agency response, including the Toms River Fire Companies No. 1 & 2, JCP&L, Veolia Water, and local emergency management officials.

Fire crews were dispatched to 152 Edgewood Drive at approximately 7:33 p.m. after receiving reports of a possible electrical fire. Upon arrival, units confirmed that a 110 kVA transformer near Building 8 was smoking and emitting unusual noises. Due to the potential danger posed by the arcing high voltage equipment, fire personnel cordoned off the area and alerted JCP&L, the local electric utility company.

As the situation unfolded, a water leak was detected near the compromised transformer, leading fire units to request assistance from Veolia Water at around 8:03 p.m. The combination of electrical and water issues necessitated the disconnection of utilities to Building 8, prompting the Bureau of Fire Prevention, Toms River Township Building Department, and Toms River Township Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to respond.

Due to the disconnection of utilities, Building 8 was declared unsafe, displacing residents from ten apartments. Fire and police units collaborated to assist occupants in retrieving essential belongings. The American Red Cross was notified by OEM to provide shelter for four individuals who were unable to find alternative accommodations for the night.

Fire department units remained on the scene for approximately two and a half hours, ensuring the area was secure and coordinating with utility companies to address the issues.

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