Teen Arrested in NJ Wildfire

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Waretown, NJ – A 19-year-old man is facing arson charges after allegedly sparking a massive wildfire that has scorched over 15,000 acres in New Jersey. Joseph Kling of Waretown was arrested and charged with second-degree aggravated arson for allegedly intentionally setting fire to a forest, and third-degree arson for recklessly endangering buildings.

Officials say Kling’s improperly extinguished bonfire near Jones Road in Waretown ignited the blaze, which began Tuesday morning and quickly spread through the dry brush of the Greenwood Wildlife Management Area. The fire jumped the Garden State Parkway, prompting the evacuation of approximately 5,000 residents and threatening over a thousand structures.

Kling appeared in court Thursday afternoon but did not enter a plea. A detention hearing is scheduled for April 29.

The criminal complaint alleges Kling admitted to starting the fire and leaving it unattended. An eyewitness also placed him at the scene.

While one commercial building was destroyed and several cabins damaged, thankfully no homes have been lost and no injuries reported. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, which was 50% contained as of Thursday afternoon. However, officials warn the fire is expected to grow due to continued dry conditions, wind, and low humidity.

Smoke from the wildfire has drifted north, impacting air quality in New York City and Long Island, prompting an air quality advisory through midnight Thursday. Authorities warn that the shifting winds may continue to carry smoke to the region on Friday.


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