TOMS RIVER, NJ – The Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention has issued a safety alert following a fire incident involving an electric bike’s lithium-ion battery. The incident occurred on Las Vegas Road in the Monterey Beach section on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at approximately 11:37 am.
Ocean Beach Fire Company No. 3 responded to the scene after receiving reports of a fire. Upon arrival, first responders confirmed that the fire was primarily concentrated around the battery pack of an electric bike parked outside a residence. The homeowner had largely extinguished the fire before the fire department’s arrival.
Despite initial containment, the situation escalated when the damaged battery, already secured by the Berkeley Township Hazmat Team for disposal, reignited in the back of the homeowner’s vehicle.
This unusual occurrence prompted a second response from both the fire company and the Hazmat team, who worked for several hours to secure the situation.
Inspector Carlin, who documented the incident, noted that the battery was not only original to the bike but had also been charged using the manufacturer’s charger and was not in use at the time of the fire. It was stored outside under direct sunlight, which may have contributed to the incident.
- Philadelphia Police Seek Public’s Help in Locating Missing Juvenile
Philadelphia, PA — The Philadelphia Police Department is requesting the public's assistance in locating missing juvenile Sandra McCoy. Sandra was last seen on July 1 at 5:00 p.m. in the 1800 block of E Pacific St.
Sandra is 14 years old, 5 feet 3 inches tall, and weighs 85 pounds. She has burgundy hair, brown eyes, wears a Pandora bracelet, and has nose and ear piercings. She may be in the area of the 1400 block of S 24th St.
Anyone with information on Sandra's whereabouts is urged to contact East Detectives at 215-686-3243.
- Rabid Bobcat Euthanized in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, VA — The Virginia Beach Police Department has issued a local alert following an incident on June 27, where a person encountered a rabid bobcat in the 2200 block of Stowe Road. The bobcat was euthanized and tested positive for rabies.
Rabies is 100% fatal if left untreated. Residents are urged to contact their physician or the Virginia Beach Department of Public Health at 757-518-2700 if anyone in their household, including pets, has had any exposure to stray or wild animals in this area within the past few weeks. Emergency calls should be directed to 911 only if there is an immediate need.
The Virginia Beach Police Department emphasizes the importance of reporting potential exposures to ensure public safety.
- Teenager Reported Missing in the Bronx
Bronx, NY — Jaydah Torres, a 17-year-old Hispanic female, has been reported missing. Torres was last seen leaving her residence at 2971 Bainbridge Avenue on Wednesday, July 3, at approximately 2:00 a.m.
Torres was last seen wearing a tan tank top, black pants, and gray and pink sandals.
Authorities are asking for any information that could help in locating Torres.