An annual pep rally at a South Jersey high school nearly turned tragic when a bonfire exploded, scattering numerous wood pallets.
Luckily no one was seriously hurt and only one minor injury was reported in Wednesday night's incident at Vineland High School.
The explosion, which happened around 6:30, occurred shortly after the bonfire was lit. It could be felt or heard up to seven miles away.
Students had put together pallets for the bonfire -- under the supervision of school district personnel -- and the Vineland Fire Department was also on scene.
One firefighter was struck in the back of his leg by flying debris, but sustained only minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
The fire was originally labeled as possibly suspicious but was ruled accidental Friday after authorities found that vapors from diesel fuel used to start the blaze apparently built up in a pit beneath a pile of wood pallets.
The pep rally was meant to energize fans for Vineland's Thanksgiving Day football game against Millville High School. The festivities continued after the blast at a site off-campus.
