Story perspectives

Belleville Mayor Declares Emergency After Helium-Fueled Warehouse Blaze

5/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mayor Michael Melham declared an emergency Monday after a 12-alarm fire broke out Sunday at a Belleville, New Jersey warehouse.
Firefighters fought the blaze, with one crew member injured and several inhaling smoke.
Helium containers exploded, spreading flames that destroyed homes and the Legacy Boxing Club for children.
Belleville schools reopened Tuesday except School 9.
Councilman Frank Velez urged residents to keep windows closed, use purifiers after power was restored.

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Story summary

Mayor Michael Melham declared an emergency Monday after a 12-alarm fire broke out Sunday at a Belleville, New Jersey warehouse.
Firefighters fought the blaze, with one crew member injured and several inhaling smoke.
Helium containers exploded, spreading flames that destroyed homes and the Legacy Boxing Club for children.
Belleville schools reopened Tuesday except School 9.
Councilman Frank Velez urged residents to keep windows closed, use purifiers after power was restored.