A massive fire broke out on in Dover Sunday evening, destroying a two-story auto body shop. The fire temporarily closed parts of Route 46 and surrounding streets.
The blaze began around 7:45 p.m. at JD Automotive and Truck on Richards Avenue. Fire crews from multiple departments responded and spent several hours bringing the fire under control.
The business was closed when the fire broke out. Large flames were visible from several blocks away, illuminating the nearby sky, and heavy smoke rose above homes in the surrounding area. Emergency responders worked to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent properties. Thankfully, no one was injured during the event.
Route 46 in Dover has since reopened in both directions. Local streets near the scene, including parts of Richards Avenue, Rutan Drive, and Sammis Avenue, were closed while crews managed the response and ensured public safety.
New Jersey Natural Gas workers were on site Monday morning conducting excavation work near the building. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, which is still unknown at this time.
The Mayor of Dover owns and operates JD Automotive and Truck.
It was a frightening moment for Dover residents, but quick response and proper management prevented a more tragic evening.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.