WEST NEW YORK, N.J. – An explosion in an apartment above Marin Pharmacy in West New York caused injuries to eight firefighters, according to officials. The incident occurred on Thursday at Bergenline Avenue & 53rd Street around 5:30 p.m..
Three firefighters, who were on the building’s roof at the time of the explosion, are among the injured. They could be seen being thrown from the building during the explosion.
North Hudson Regional Rescue Chief David Donnarumma described the situation as rapidly deteriorating, with several distress calls issued after the explosion.
All individuals involved were safely evacuated. The injuries sustained by the firefighters range from smoke inhalation to broken bones. One firefighter, in particular, suffered a severe back injury while on the roof.
The cause of the explosion remains unclear, with the chief stating there was no immediate evidence of an e-bike or deep-fried turkey involvement, though investigations are still in the preliminary stage.
In the aftermath, firefighters managed to rescue four individuals, and a total of 20 residents were displaced from their homes on Thanksgiving night. The investigation into the cause of the explosion continues.