ICYMI: 14-Year-Old Arrested for Arson in New Jersey Forest Fire—Second Blaze Investigated!
Charged with setting a fire that burned 52 acres in New Jersey, a 14-year-old is under scrutiny as investigators probe a second 375-acre blaze. 🌐 #News #BurlingtonCountyNJ #NewJersey #Crime
BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ – A 14-year-old boy from Marlton, New Jersey, is facing serious charges after authorities say he deliberately set a forest fire that burned 52 acres late last month. Investigators are also looking into a potential connection to a second, much larger fire in the same area that scorched 375 acres just days later.
First Fire: 52 Acres Burned in Evesham Township
The first fire broke out around 1 p.m. on October 30 near Sycamore Drive and the Berlin Township border. Firefighters from the Evesham Fire Department and the New Jersey Forest Fire Service battled the blaze for several days before it was fully extinguished. Though the fire consumed 52 acres of forest, no structures were damaged.
Following an investigation by the Evesham Police Department, Evesham Fire Department, and Forest Fire Service, authorities determined the fire was caused by arson. Their extensive investigation led to a juvenile suspect.
Arrest and Second Fire Under Investigation
On November 7, the 14-year-old was arrested and charged with aggravated arson and causing or risking widespread injury or damage. He was booked into the Middlesex Juvenile Detention Center. Authorities have not released his name due to his age.
The same day as the arrest, another fire ignited in the area of Sycamore Drive, burning 375 acres before being extinguished. Investigators are looking into whether the second blaze is connected to the October 30 fire, but no charges have been filed in relation to this larger incident.
Police Seek Public’s Help
The Evesham Police Department is asking for tips from the public to aid in their investigation of both fires. They encourage anyone with information to contact the department or submit an anonymous tip.
Though no structures were lost, the combined damage of 427 acres highlights the devastating impact these fires have had on the local environment. Law enforcement and firefighters continue their efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | New Jersey
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