First responders responded to a partial roof collapse at a BJ’s Wholesale Club in Monmouth County Monday morning.
The incident occurred around 11 a.m. at the store on Route 35 in Ocean Township, New Jersey.
Officials say 27 people were inside the building at the time of the collapse. Two of those people were partially trapped but freed themselves and got out safely.
The area had experienced major flooding.
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office is asking people to stay away from the area and says it is extremely dangerous to travel there.
Police are asking people to avoid the areas of Route 35, Park Avenue, and Deal Road, particularly between Routes 18 and 35, until further notice.
“This incident is another reminder of how quickly severe weather can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions,” said Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden. “We commend all first responders who worked with urgency under challenging circumstances. Despite the ongoing flooding and severe weather affecting our communities, all worked seamlessly together to ensure everyone was safely accounted for. Their dedication and teamwork exemplify the very best of public safety.”
Officials have not released any other details.