A raging fire erupted at a New Jersey auto shop late Tuesday, tearing through a half-dozen businesses and drawing hundreds of firefighters to battle flames early into the next morning.
The five-alarm fire, which Hillside’s mayor called “the second-worst fire in 18 years,” in the township forced dozens of people out of their homes.
The extent of the damage hasn’t yet been determined, nor has the cause.
The mayor of Hillside says the fire eviscerated an entire strip of businesses on Maple Avenue.
Smoke was visible from Newark Airport as the fire burned overnight, the distinctive smell detectable from Route 22. The surrounding neighborhoods were shrouded in thick, choking smoke. People who live in the vicinity who have respiratory issues or related ailments were advised to keep their windows closed as a precaution.
Neighbors say the fire started in the car shop around 7 p.m. — then quickly spread to a dog store and a beauty salon next door. All the buildings are connected, fueling the spread.
Hillside police say no injuries were reported. Some evacuations were ordered.
Multiple agencies from surrounding communities, including the state fire marshal, were called to the scene.

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