A teenager faces arson charges in connection with the massive wildfire burning in Ocean County, New Jersey. Authorities allege Joseph Kling, 19, of Ocean Township, is responsible for starting the blaze that has consumed thousands of acres in the Pine Barrens.
Officials announced Thursday the arrest of Kling, charging him with aggravated arson and arson. The charges follow an investigation into the cause of the fire that began April 22 near Jones and Bryant roads in Waretown.
Investigators determined the fire began with an improperly extinguished bonfire. Authorities allege Kling set wooden pallets on fire and left the area without ensuring the flames were fully out.
The fire spread quickly through the dry woods. As of Thursday, it had burned over 15,000 acres, though some estimates placed the area at more than 23 square miles. It forced the evacuation of thousands of residents at its peak.
One business was destroyed, and some vehicles were lost to the fire. Roads were closed, including a portion of the Garden State Parkway which has since reopened.
Smoke from the fire has drifted north, impacting air quality in the New York City area. Officials warned sensitive groups to take precautions.
Kling was taken into custody at the Ocean Township Police headquarters. He was then transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he remains held pending a detention hearing.
The New Jersey Office of the Public Defender issued a statement noting they could not comment on pending cases. The statement reminded the public that individuals are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in court.
Firefighters have made progress containing the blaze, reporting 50% containment by Thursday. However, the fire is expected to grow before it is fully controlled, particularly in uninhabited areas. Officials have noted this could be the largest wildfire in the state in two decades.
The Pine Barrens region is experiencing its peak fire season. Low humidity and previous dry conditions contribute to the fire risk. New Jersey acting Gov. Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency Wednesday as crews battled the spreading flames. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Live updates on the wildfire remain available.
DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette stated, "This is still a very active fire... the expectation is that the number of acres will grow and will grow in a place that is unpopulated."
