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7 Injured, 4 Critically After Flames Rip Through Homes In Woodbury

WOODBURY, N.J. (CBS) — Fire broke out in a group home in Woodbury, Gloucester County overnight, leaving seven men injured, four critically.

With dangerous winds blowing, flames spread to cars and two other houses.

Woodbury fire chief Randall Gartner says the fire started in a church run group home on Mehorter Boulevard, that's now a charred pile of rubble.

Around 3:30 this morning, officials say flames ripped through the home, which then quickly collapsed.

The flames spread to two cars in the driveway, along with a vacant house for sale on the left and another house to the right. The residents there got out safely with their five-month-old child.

Gina is from the block and she couldn't believe what was happening.

"Woke up hearing screaming. Next thing I know, an explosion, looked out the window and all I saw were flashing lights."

Gartner says frisbee sized embers were flying around and some residents had to get out their garden hoses to protect their property.

He also expressed frustration that it took hours for those responsible to shut down power and gas service to the neighborhood as a precaution.

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