Two fatalities follow massive explosion in New Jersey home

In the early hours of Sunday, May 12, 2025, an explosion occurred in Sewell, New Jersey, leading to a devastating house fire that resulted in the deaths of two residents, a man and a woman. The incident was reported around 2 a.m., and witnesses described the powerful blast as sounding like a bomb. First responders received multiple 911 calls noting the explosion and the subsequent fire, which engulfed the home. Upon their arrival, firefighters discovered that the house was fully in flames, prompting an urgent firefighting response. The local authorities have not confirmed the cause of the explosion, but they have initiated a criminal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office is actively involved in the inquiry, and autopsies are planned to gather further details regarding the victims. Residents in the vicinity were reported to be deeply shaken by the blast; many described feeling their houses shake and hurriedly evacuated to ensure their safety under the alarming circumstances. Jimmy Gibson, a nearby resident, recounted witnessing the explosion and the immediate aftermath, stating that he could sense something was wrong due to the loud boom. Other neighbors echoed his sentiments, expressing their shock at the sight of the once-standing home now reduced to rubble. As the destructive fire raged on, nearby homes sustained damage, adding to the overall chaos of the scene. The community in Sewell is grappling with this tragic incident, reflecting on the loss of lives and the reality of such unexpected occurrences in their neighborhood. As investigations continue, more information is anticipated that will hopefully clarify the cause of the explosion and lead to answers for the grieving families and community members affected by this tragedy.