Body camera video shows New Jersey firefighter using chainsaw to cut roof open during large fire

New video from a fire truck and a body camera shows firefighters jumping into action by climbing onto a roof and working to extinguish a large fire in New Jersey. 

The Morganville Fire Department was called just after 5 p.m. Friday to a four-alarm blaze at an apartment building on Peach Lane in Old Bridge.

Video from the top of the responding tiller fire truck shows the vehicle racing to get to the building while the sirens blare. When it arrives, flames are seen shooting out of the roof of the apartment complex.

The engine was positioned next to the building before extending its ladder. 

Body camera footage shows a firefighter climbing across the ladder onto the roof with a chainsaw. The first responder cut into the roof as thick smoke continued to billow. 

Video from Chopper 2 shows the building destroyed and the roof scorched.

Fire officials said responders were able to prevent the spread of flames to additional apartments.

"I can't imagine getting on top of a building and literally slicing into the roof," resident Alicia Imbro said. "Obviously, they're doing that job for a reason. They're superheroes!"

Fire officials said it was the first fire that truck responded to and the 37th that the department has gone to in 2026.

The Red Cross said it is helping 11 families with emergency assistance for temporary housing, food, clothing and other immediate needs.

The community is also rallying behind the families.

"This is the worst thing that could have possibly happened, but the community support has been incredible. Everybody is donating. Everybody is trying to do a fundraiser for everyone," resident Tara Perchuk said.