Explosions That Caused Middletown House Fire Being Investigated

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The cause of multiple explosions and a fire at a home in the River Plaza section of Middletown Wednesday is still being investigated, but here are photos of the home where it occurred.

The 911 call came in at 9:53 a.m. Wednesday of multiple explosions at a home on Alexander Drive. The home was also on fire.

Volunteers with River Plaza Hose Company #1 arrived to find heavy fire on the left side of the home, which was unoccupied.

The home's utilities were secured by New Jersey Natural Gas, JCP&L and New Jersey American Water. The fire was called under control by Chief Russell Mount III at 10:30 a.m. All units were cleared from the scene at 1:16 p.m.

The fire is being investigated by the Middletown Fire Marshal’s office. At first it was thought the home was very badly damaged, but Middletown's volunteer firefighters were able to prevent the fire from spreading too much, said spokesman Dennis Fowler.

River Plaza elementary, located very close by, was not affected.

Approximately 45 members from five companies of the Middletown Township Fire Department responded to the call from Belford Engine, Community, Middletown Number 1, River Plaza Hose and Lincroft Fire Companies. The MTFD Air Unit and the Safety Unit responded.

Ten EMS members from Fairview, Leonardo and Port Monmouth and Lincroft First Aid Squads and Middletown’s Emergency Medical Services responded with four ambulances to provide firefighter rehabilitation and medical services to all firefighters. No firefighter or civilian injuries were reported.

Initial report: House Fire In Middletown's River Plaza; Explosion Reported