TOTOWA, N.J. — A vehicle exploded in a residential neighborhood in Totowa, New Jersey, early Monday, injuring one person and damaging a nearby home, while investigators worked to determine the cause of the blast, local fire officials said.
The explosion occurred at about 5:40 a.m. on Congressional Lane as a plumber was attempting to start his work vehicle, according to preliminary findings from fire officials. The force of the explosion destroyed the vehicle, damaged a neighboring house and displaced part of a fence, authorities said. One person, believed to be the vehicle's driver, was injured and taken for medical treatment. Officials did not immediately release details on the severity of the injuries.
Fire officials said an acetylene tank carried inside the vehicle may have leaked, potentially triggering the explosion when the engine was started. Authorities emphasized that the cause remains under investigation and that the preliminary assessment could change as investigators continue examining the scene.
Emergency crews secured the area after the blast, while local building officials were called to inspect the neighboring residence for possible structural damage. Images from the scene showed the vehicle heavily damaged, with debris scattered across the street and visible damage to the home's exterior. A section of fencing was also displaced by the force of the explosion.
Residents reported being awakened by a loud explosion before seeing emergency responders arrive. Several neighbors gathered outside their homes as police and firefighters cordoned off the area and investigators documented the scene.
Authorities have not indicated that foul play is suspected. No evacuation orders beyond the immediate area were announced, and officials did not report additional injuries.
Acetylene is a highly flammable gas commonly used in welding and other industrial applications. Fire safety officials routinely advise that cylinders containing compressed gases be transported and stored in accordance with safety regulations because leaks can create an explosion hazard if the gas encounters an ignition source.
The investigation remains ongoing, with fire officials expected to determine whether the explosion resulted from equipment failure, an accidental gas leak or another cause. Authorities said additional information would be released as it becomes available.
