LONG BRANCH, N.J. — Long Branch Fire Chief Arthur Green suffered a broken nose after being struck by falling debris while operating at a major fire Thursday morning, but reports indicate his helmet helped prevent a much more serious injury.
The fire broke out around 10 a.m. in the 100 block of Broadway near Pier Village, where flames tore through a large apartment complex under construction. Heavy fire and smoke were seen pushing through the upper portions of the multi-story building as crews worked in difficult conditions.
During operations, debris struck Green in the face. He was taken to a hospital, treated for a broken nose, and later returned to duty at the scene, according to local reporting.
Photos and social media posts circulating after the incident appeared to show visible damage to the chief’s helmet, including a crack, adding to the fire service message that protective gear likely prevented more serious injuries.
More than 100 firefighters responded to the scene as the blaze ripped through the nearly completed development. Workers reportedly first noticed flames near the roof area, and strong winds helped spread fire and smoke through the structure.
The fire remains under investigation. Officials have not yet released a full cause or detailed damage estimate
