Mortal storm hits New Jersey, songs from the city affected by July 4, celebration

A mortal storm with winds that exceed 60 MPH crossed the center of New Jersey, forcing a city to cancel its July 4 celebrations.

The severe thunderstorm on Thursday night killed at least three people: one in North Plainfield and two in Plainfield, about 30 miles west New York, ABC New York Station Wabc reported.

Plainfield’s deaths were 79 -year -old Rocco Sansone and Brian Ernesto Valladares, 25, who died when a tree fell on his car, according to the city.

“Our hearts are heavy,” said Mayor Adrian O. Mapp in a statement. “We cry with families and we are ready to support them in all possible ways.”

Plainfield is under an emergency, and the mayor says that the “devastating storm” left “deep scars.”

Casas and cars have been damaged and some houses are structurally compromised of fallen trees, city officials said. More than 80 trees were demolished, including many that block roads or are entangled with electric lines, authorities said.

“In the light of this tragedy, we cannot, in good awareness, continue with our parade, concert or fireworks of July 4,” said the mayor in a statement overnight. “This is not a time for celebration. It is a time to regroup and focus all our energy on recovery.”

“There will be a time to celebrate again, to lift our flags and enjoy the joys of the community,” said the mayor. “But at this time, we must unite to clean each other, support each other and start the reconstruction work.”