A home suddenly exploded after its residents evacuated due to Hurricane Ida in Rahway, New Jersey.
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Authorities report the explosion took place early Thursday morning around 5:45 a.m., hours after residents evacuated to avoid heavy flooding caused by the storm. During the explosion, one person was struck by debris after driving by the scene and was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries as reported by the New York Post.
The family who lived in the home were identified as The Patels and Mr. Patel said he is thankful that he and his family are OK despite the damage. “They’re considering it a total loss. It’s going to take a time, so we’re just trying to figure out where we’re going to be staying, where to pick up the pieces,” he explained.
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Mrs. Patel explained to ABC News 7 that she and her husband moved into the home three years ago after their wedding.
“We got married. We bought our house the same year. In three years, all our stuff is gone. I left at midnight with my baby girl, and my parents thankfully were there to help me. My car is fully flooded now, have to get it towed out.”
To help with their expenses, a neighbor has set up a GoFundMe page for the couple.