Trash can explodes outside home in New Jersey, had been left for collection

BARNEGAT, New Jersey (WABC) -- Local and state police are on the scene after a garbage can exploded in Ocean County, New Jersey, early Thursday.

The loud blast happened around 1:30 a.m. on a curb between Village Drive and Windward Drive in Barnegat.

Arriving officers found a cloud of smoke emanating from the remnants of a rubber trash can with a debris field contained within 10 yards of the area of origin.

The trash can had reportedly been left on the curb for collection later in the morning.

The explosion caused no injuries, damage to surrounding homes or vehicles. Still, residents were rattled.

Last month, an explosion in a trash can in another Ocean County community was linked to Chelsea bombing suspect Ahmed Rahami.

Authorities do not believe terrorism is involved, and Ocean County Prosecutor's Office spokesman Al Della Fave said investigators believe the blast likely was more of a nuisance and not meant to cause harm given the time and location.

The explosive material is unknown at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.