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Second Teen Arrested as Jones Road Wildfire Reaches 80% Containment

Authorities charge two teenagers with arson and hindering apprehension in connection to the 15,300-acre blaze in New Jersey's Pine Barrens.

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Firefighters battle a wildfire in Ocean County, N.J. on April 24.
Smoke fills the sky from a wildfire in Lacey Townships, N.J. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. (New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection via AP)

Overview

  • A 17-year-old boy was arrested on Thursday and charged with aggravated arson, arson, and hindering apprehension for his alleged role in starting the Jones Road Wildfire.
  • Joseph Kling, 19, was previously arrested and now faces an additional charge of hindering apprehension for allegedly providing false information to investigators.
  • The wildfire, which began on April 22, has burned over 15,300 acres, forced the evacuation of 5,000 residents, and destroyed a commercial building.
  • Investigators determined the fire was caused by an improperly extinguished bonfire, with both suspects accused of setting wooden pallets on fire and leaving the area unattended.
  • The fire is now 80% contained, with multi-agency teams continuing suppression efforts and conducting an extensive investigation into the environmental and public safety impacts.