- A house fire broke out late Saturday night on Leawood Avenue, Toms River.
- The Pope family was inside when flames spread quickly.
- Neighbor Joshan Lori rushed over, alerting them and helping them escape.
- Video footage captured the family of four fleeing as embers and ash filled the air.
- Fire officials confirmed the blaze was caused by a cigarette.
Residents of Leawood Avenue in Toms River narrowly escaped tragedy on Saturday night when a late-night fire engulfed a family home.
The Pope family, who were inside at the time, recounted being startled by frantic knocking at their door just moments before spotting flames spreading rapidly. Their neighbor, identified as Joshan Lori, had rushed over after noticing the fire and helped alert the family.
Dramatic video from the scene shows the family of four racing out of their burning house as embers and ash lit up the night sky.
According to the fire department, the blaze, which broke out just before midnight, was traced to a cigarette. Firefighters managed to contain the flames, preventing further spread, but the home sustained severe damage.
Source: NewsandVibes.com