Roof partially collapses at New Jersey store, briefly trapping 2

A roof partially collapsed at a BJ’s Wholesale Club in New Jersey while 27 people were inside, briefly trapping two of them before they were able to free themselves, according to officials. No injuries were reported.

The collapse happened at about 11:16 a.m. Monday at the store on Route 35 in Ocean Township, a community in Monmouth County, according to the sheriff’s office and local police.

Emergency crews responded after reports of a partial roof collapse and found that everyone inside the building had made it out safely. Two people were partially trapped by debris but were able to get free and leave the store on their own.

Surveillance video shared by Ocean Township Mayor John Napolitani showed shoppers and employees inside the store moments before the ceiling and roof structure suddenly gave way, sending debris, dust and water into the aisles as people ran from the area.

Search crews later checked the building with an interior drone and search-and-rescue K-9 teams to make sure no one remained inside. Officials said primary and secondary searches have been completed.

Authorities did not immediately say what caused the collapse. Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden said severe weather and flooding were affecting the area.

Ocean Township Police Chief Michael Sorrentino asked people to avoid the area around Route 35, Park Avenue and Deal Road while emergency operations continue.

“This incident is another reminder of how quickly severe weather can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions,” Sheriff Golden said. “We commend all first responders who worked with urgency under challenging circumstances.”