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No injuries were reported after a partial roof collapse at a BJ's Wholesale Club in Ocean Township, according to local and county officials.
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office said crews responded to the store at 1904 Route 35 in the Oakhurst section of Ocean Township at about 11:16 a.m. after receiving reports of a partial roof collapse. Authorities said 27 people were inside the building at the time.
Two people were partially trapped but were able to free themselves and safely exit, officials said.
Emergency responders from multiple local, county and regional agencies conducted primary and secondary searches of the building. Officials said everyone inside was accounted for, and no injuries to staff or customers were reported.
Ocean Township Police Chief Michael Sorrentino urged residents to avoid the area while emergency operations continue.
"Our first priority was ensuring the safety of everyone at the scene while allowing emergency personnel the space they need to complete their work," Sorrentino said. "We ask residents and motorists to avoid the areas of Route 35, Park Avenue, and Deal Road, particularly between Routes 18 and 35, until further notice."
(Mayor John Napolitani of Ocean Township verified to News 12 this surveillance video, which is now going viral, was taken inside the BJ's during the collapse.)
Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden credited first responders for their coordinated response despite severe weather conditions.
"This incident is another reminder of how quickly severe weather can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions," Golden said. "We commend all first responders who worked with urgency under challenging circumstances. Despite the ongoing flooding and severe weather affecting our communities, all worked seamlessly together to ensure everyone was safely accounted for. Their dedication and teamwork exemplify the very best of public safety."


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