Large flames, loud booms caused by massive fire in Hamilton Township, NJ

MAYS LANDING, N.J. (WPVI) -- Neighbors like Ken Groome witnessed giant flames and thick plumes of black smoke billowing from a home on Burning Tree Court in Hamilton Township, Atlantic County, on Monday afternoon.

"Flames were 20 feet high," said Groome. "The whole back of the house was engulfed, and the porch was engulfed. The smoke was absolutely terrible."

If residents didn't see the raging fire, they heard it.

"Every once in a while, you just keep hearing some more big booms, and then the shed she had in the back basically imploded," said Groome.

Hamilton Township police said those noises came from propane tanks at the house.

Detectives said the blaze began around 12:30 p.m. Monday, and firefighters from six departments had the fire under control within 40 minutes.

"It was troubling because the houses are relatively close together," said Groome.

Police said the homeowner was outside of her house doing yard work at the time, and thankfully walked away with no injuries.

"She's actually a real sweetheart," said Suzanne Toby. "She's with her sister now. She used to be a clown and her nickname is "Jingles." She has the most beautiful heart in the world."

Toby said she helped console the woman who has lived there for more than 20 years.

"Good spirits, a little shocked of course," said Toby. "I was able to give her a big hug."

Police said the house is a total loss, and two houses next door also have some damage.

Amid the devastation, Groome said the woman can count on her neighbors.

"It's a very friendly community, people like to help each other," said Groome. "We'll just have to see what she needs."

Police did not say where the fire started.

The cause is under investigation, but police say it does not seem suspicious.