A major emergency response unfolded Monday in Monmouth County, New Jersey, after part of the roof at a BJ’s Wholesale Club gave way, trapping several people inside as severe weather moved through the area.
Emergency crews were called to the BJ’s Wholesale Club on Route 35 in Ocean Township shortly after 11:15 a.m. local time following reports of the collapse, the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
Dramatic video appeared to capture shoppers browsing grocery aisles moments before the ceiling failed, with a torrent of water suddenly pouring into the store.
Officials said 27 people were inside the building when the collapse occurred. No injuries were reported.
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office was seen responding to the roof collapse at BJ’s Wholesale Club in Ocean Township, New Jersey. (Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office)
Two individuals became partially trapped in the debris but were able to free themselves and exit the building safely, authorities said.
Specialized rescue teams were brought in to check the property and confirm that no one remained inside, with crews carrying out both primary and secondary searches, according to the sheriff’s office.
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The search effort included an interior drone operated by the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, as well as New Jersey Urban Search and Rescue K-9 teams, as responders assessed the structurally compromised building.
Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden praised the first responders for working “seamlessly together” despite the severe weather and ongoing flooding plaguing the local communities.
“This incident is another reminder of how quickly severe weather can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions,” Golden said.
Authorities said 27 people were inside, two were briefly partially trapped, and no injuries were reported after rescue crews searched and cleared the damaged building. (X/ @jamelholley)
Ocean Township Police Chief Michael Sorrentino urged motorists and residents to stay away from the area as emergency operations continue.
Travelers are asked to avoid Route 35, Park Avenue and Deal Road, specifically the stretch between Routes 18 and 35.
