Massive Sinkhole Swallows Multiple Vehicles on Cape May Street
CAPE MAY, NJ (March 21, 2025) – A large sinkhole has opened on a residential street in Cape May, swallowing at least three parked vehicles and forcing the evacuation of nearby homes, authorities confirmed early this morning.
City officials reported the incident occurred shortly after 2:00 a.m. on the 100 block of Beach Avenue. Witnesses described hearing a loud rumbling sound followed by the collapse of approximately 30 feet of asphalt. The sinkhole, estimated to be 40 feet wide and 15 feet deep, has exposed underground utility lines and prompted an immediate response from municipal emergency services.
No injuries have been reported, as the vehicles were unoccupied at the time of the collapse. Two of the cars remain partially visible at the edge of the crater, while a third was completely submerged. Emergency crews have cordoned off the area, and residents of six nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution due to concerns over gas leaks and structural instability.
Officials believe the sinkhole was caused by erosion from a ruptured water main. The Cape May Public Works Department and utility crews are on-site assessing damage and coordinating repairs. The affected section of Beach Avenue will remain closed indefinitely.
An investigation is underway to determine the full extent of underground damage. Local authorities have urged the public to avoid the area. This incident follows a pattern of increased sinkhole activity in coastal regions due to aging infrastructure and recent heavy rainfall.