Several cars caught fire in Hackensack after power lines fell and a transformer failed, forcing firefighters to wait for the power shutdown before controlling the dangerous scene.
WEBDESK – SAMAN NOOR – NJNEWSLINE
A quiet Hackensack neighborhood turned into an emergency scene early Wednesday morning when several parked cars suddenly caught fire after power lines fell and a transformer was damaged, forcing firefighters to wait until the electricity was shut off before they could safely battle the flames.
The incident unfolded on Prospect Avenue near Berry Street, where residents were met with flames, thick black smoke, and emergency crews rushing to secure the area. The New Jersey city, located just outside New York City, saw multiple vehicles damaged as officials responded to the dangerous electrical situation.
Flames and Heavy Smoke Fill Hackensack Neighborhood
Residents in the area woke up to the sight of several vehicles engulfed in flames as thick black smoke poured into the sky.
The fires broke out in the 300 block of Prospect Avenue, where emergency crews rushed to the scene. Photos from the area showed firefighters responding while flames continued coming from the damaged vehicles.
Officials said the situation became more complicated because of nearby downed power lines and a blown transformer.
Firefighters Waited as Utility Crews Cut Power
The Hackensack Fire Department warned residents to avoid Prospect Avenue near Berry Street because of the electrical danger created by the fallen lines.
Firefighters from Hackensack and nearby departments responded, but crews were unable to move close to the vehicles until the electricity was shut off.
PSE&G workers arrived and disconnected power to the affected area, allowing firefighters to safely approach and work to extinguish the flames.
Downed Lines Created Dangerous Conditions
Emergency officials said the fallen power lines created a major safety concern for both firefighters and nearby residents.
Live electrical wires on the ground can remain dangerous even when they appear inactive, which is why authorities advised people to stay away from the area.
The damaged transformer added another challenge for crews working to control the situation and secure the neighborhood.
No Injuries Reported as Investigation Continues
Despite the intensity of the vehicle fires, no injuries were reported, officials said.
Authorities have not released the exact number of vehicles damaged or confirmed whether any cars were completely destroyed.
The cause of the incident remains under investigation. Officials have not determined whether overnight storms contributed to the power line failure, although severe weather may have played a role.
Residents Urged to Stay Alert Around Power Hazards
Officials continue reminding residents across the New York-New Jersey region to avoid fallen power lines and report electrical hazards immediately.
Emergency crews often warn that approaching damaged utility equipment can put people at serious risk, especially after storms or other weather events.
The Hackensack incident temporarily affected the neighborhood as firefighters, police, and utility workers worked together to make the area safe.
Investigation Continues After Morning Fire Disrupts Neighborhood
What started as a routine morning in Hackensack quickly became a dangerous emergency as flames spread through parked vehicles and electrical hazards forced crews to take extra precautions.
While no one was hurt, the incident highlighted the risks that can come with damaged power equipment and severe weather conditions. Officials are continuing to investigate what caused the lines to fall and the vehicles to catch fire.
Residents can expect further updates as authorities determine the full extent of the damage and whether weather conditions contributed to the incident.
