Massive Fire Breaks Out at Camden Waterfront Junkyard, Blanketing the Sky in Black Smoke
A significant fire erupted at a scrap metal junkyard in Camden, New Jersey, causing billows of black smoke to fill the air. The incident took place on the 1400 block of South Front Street at the Waterfront, as confirmed by a city spokesperson.
The Start of the Blaze
Reports indicate that the fire likely began around 5 p.m. amidst a collection of deconstructed cars at EMR in South Camden. The city of Camden Fire Department swiftly responded to the scene, joined by various neighboring departments to combat the flames. In a collaborative effort, water was sourced from different areas of the city to aid in extinguishing the fire.
Eyewitness Accounts
As the fire unfolded, David, an employee at Adventure Aquarium, expressed his unease, stating, “It’s nerve-wracking. That smoke is thick and it’s traveling.” Aerial footage captured by SkyForce10 at approximately 5:30 p.m. revealed dense black smoke emanating from a structure within the junkyard.
Challenges Faced by the Community
David highlighted the challenges faced by the local community, emphasizing the prevalence of aging infrastructure and neglected properties prone to such incidents. The Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management also raised awareness, noting that the smoke was visible from the city’s vantage point.
Safety Measures and Precautions
In response to the fire, the Camden County Police Department implemented road closures at the corner of 2nd Street and Atlantic Avenue. Monitoring efforts to assess air quality are currently underway, with residents in proximity to EMR advised to remain indoors and deactivate any HVAC systems drawing air from outside.
Community Support and Resources
EMR has extended support to affected residents by offering complimentary accommodations at the Hilton Garden Inn on 1 Penn Street in Camden. To avail of this service, individuals must present a valid ID reflecting a South Camden address. Additionally, the City of Camden has announced plans to open community centers as shelters for those impacted by the fire.
A Call for Vigilance
While no injuries have been reported thus far, residents are urged to steer clear of the affected area until the fire is fully contained. As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, agencies remain vigilant in addressing the situation.
Contact Information and Updates
Residents of South Camden seeking assistance or information are encouraged to reach out to Stacy Pierce of EMR at 856-408-9735. This remains a developing story, with ongoing updates accessible through reliable sources. Stay informed for further details as the situation progresses.
