Watch CBS News

Buildings in Belleville, N.J. still smoldering after being torched by fire several days ago

Firefighters are still putting out hot spots on buildings destroyed by a massive warehouse fire in Belleville, New Jersey, that started on Sunday.

Responders have been at the scene on Cortlandt Street around the clock. Smoke can still be seen as firefighters spray down the debris.  

new-new-westbrook-belle-wcbshqog-hi-res-still-00-00-2907.jpg
CBS News New York

Crews are continuing to demolish the damaged buildings. Work started Wednesday, with large excavators ripping through charred metal and collapsed buildings.

Gov. Mikie Sherrill is expected to visit the scene later Thursday to thank first responders for their efforts.

Air quality testing to resume

Officials with the Department of Environmental Protection will be back on site Thursday for more air quality testing.

This comes as many neighbors continue to worry about what they are breathing in. 

City officials say they are continuing to rely on information from emergency management, fire officials and environmental experts as the response continues.

new-new-westbrook-belle-wcbshqog-hi-res-still.jpg
CBS News New York

Video from Chopper 2 shows how widespread the destruction is. An entire industrial block was destroyed. 

Mayor Michael Melham previously said initial testing showed normal oxygen levels.  

Residents still feeling the impacts

Dozens are still displaced, and others were forced out of their homes due to gas and water being shut off. 

Belleville schools are back open for the first time this week, but students are remote Thursday and Friday. 

A command post has been set up for residents with cots and food. 

"I mean, who knows when we can come back. It's horrible, rough, but I am pretty sure we are going to get through it," resident Mike Scruggs said.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue