Hillsborough, NJ (February 13, 2026) – Several residents were injured on Sunday, February 9, following a fireplace explosion inside a home on Long Hill Rd in Hillsborough. Police and fire crews were dispatched at approximately 9:06 a.m. after receiving reports of an explosion with victims injured. Upon arrival, officers determined that a fireplace explosion had caused damage to the living room, chimney, walls, and front door. There was no active fire at the scene. Police assisted residents out of the home while firefighters conducted checks throughout all levels of the structure to ensure conditions were safe. Robert Wood Johnson EMS treated multiple individuals for minor injuries at the scene. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the Bureau of Fire Safety and the Hillsborough Police Department.
Key Details
- Location: Long Hill Rd, Hillsborough
- Reported: February 9 at 9:06 a.m.
- Type of Incident: Fireplace explosion inside residence
- Injuries: Several residents sustained minor injuries
- Damage: Living room, chimney, walls, and front door affected
- Responding Agencies: Hillsborough Police, Hillsborough Fire Department, Fire Marshals, Robert Wood Johnson EMS, and supporting units
What We Know So Far
- The explosion originated in the home’s fireplace and caused structural damage.
- No active fire was found upon arrival of emergency crews.
- Firefighters checked all levels of the home to confirm the structure was safe.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The exact cause of the fireplace explosion.
- The extent of structural repairs required.
- Whether the home will be temporarily uninhabitable.
Local Context
Residential neighborhoods in Hillsborough often rely on fireplaces and supplemental heating during colder months, especially during periods of extreme winter weather. Incidents involving fireplaces can pose risks not only from fire but also from pressure-related events such as flue blockages or gas buildup. When an explosion occurs inside a home, emergency crews typically prioritize evacuating occupants, checking for hidden fire extension, and ensuring structural stability. Bitter cold and icy conditions, as reported during this response, can further complicate operations and require additional precautions for both residents and first responders.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, move to a safe location and call 911 if anyone is injured or if there is concern about fire or structural damage.
- Follow instructions from police and fire personnel while they assess the safety of the home.
- Document visible property damage with photos once authorities confirm it is safe to reenter.
- Monitor for delayed symptoms such as breathing issues or dizziness and seek medical evaluation if needed.
FAQ
Q: Why might early details change after the initial call?
A: Initial reports are often based on limited information, and details may be clarified as investigators examine the scene.
Q: Why can fireplace explosions occur?
A: Explosions can result from gas buildup, blocked flues, or other mechanical issues that create pressure inside the system.
Q: What does it mean when an incident is still under investigation?
A: It means officials are reviewing evidence and assessing conditions to determine the exact cause before releasing conclusions.
