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3d ago

Teenager Charged with Arson for New Jersey Wildfire That Scorched 15,000 Acres

Joseph Kling, 19, is accused of starting one of New Jersey’s largest wildfires in decades with an improperly extinguished bonfire.

The fire is still burning two days after it began in Pine Barrens
A man has been arrested for aggravated arson in connection with the raging wildfire in New Jersey, according to authorities.
A NASA image shows the amount of land that burnt off following a massive wildfire in New Jersey's Pine Barrens.

Overview

  • The wildfire, which began on April 22 in the Pine Barrens, has burned 15,000 acres and is 50% contained.
  • Authorities allege Joseph Kling set a bonfire using wooden pallets and failed to fully extinguish it, sparking the fire.
  • The blaze destroyed a commercial building, forced the evacuation of 5,000 residents, and caused elevated pollution levels in New York counties.
  • Kling has been charged with aggravated arson and is being held at Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
  • No injuries or fatalities have been reported, and all evacuation orders have been lifted as containment efforts continue.