A shocking video has emerged showing a tractor-trailer erupting into a massive fireball on Route 3 in Clifton, New Jersey, on Monday morning, nearly injuring local firefighters. The incident, which occurred after a bus reportedly rear-ended the truck, has led to highway closures and home evacuations in the area.
The dramatic footage, captured by a bystander, shows a Clifton firefighter approaching the burning tractor-trailer when it suddenly explodes into a towering inferno. The firefighter narrowly escapes as a flaming tire hurtles through the air, missing him by mere feet. Another video depicts the tire slamming into a parked fire truck, nearly hitting another firefighter carrying gear.
Local resident Jignasha Rana described the scene to CBS: “I went outside in my backyard, and there was a big fire — a big, big, big fire. I was so scared, so I took my kids and my mother-in-law and brought them to my mother’s house.”
The explosion’s impact was significant, with the truck crashing through highway sound barriers and the intense heat melting a nearby above-ground pool and vinyl siding on a house. Homes near the highway were evacuated, and Route 3 remains closed in both directions near Valley Road and Grove Street.
First responders discovered the truck was carrying explosive materials, though the exact nature of these materials remains unclear. The Clifton Police Department has advised people to avoid the area entirely.
While some injuries have been reported, details remain scarce. Notably, the truck driver is still missing, adding urgency to the ongoing investigation.
This incident highlights the dangers faced by first responders and the potential for everyday traffic accidents to escalate into major emergencies. As cleanup and investigation continue, local authorities are working to manage the impact on traffic and ensure the safety of nearby residents.
The dramatic video serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of such incidents and the bravery of firefighters who risk their lives to protect others. As the situation develops, officials will be focused on determining the cause of the explosion and implementing measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
nypost.com
