Police arrested Joseph Kling, 19, for allegedly starting the New Jersey wildfire that has burned more than 15,000 acres and is about 50% contained. Authorities say a joint investigation revealed Kling lit a bonfire using wooden pallets and left before it was fully extinguished.

Ocean County

Crews in southern New Jersey are actively working to contain a significant wildfire that has already burned over 15,000 acres and is approximately 50% contained. Smoke continues to billow as a part of the interior burns. Local law enforcement has arrested 19-year-old Joseph Kling in connection with the fire, charging him with multiple counts of arson. 

Authorities report that a joint investigation concluded Kling ignited a bonfire using wooden pallets and abandoned the site before the fire was thoroughly extinguished. As a result, Kling will remain in Ocean County Jail until his next court appearance. The wildfire was first identified a few days ago and expanded rapidly, leading to temporary evacuations affecting thousands.

The fire presented a vivid scene with high, bright, multicolored flames as described by local resident Patricia Orvets, who was relieved to be back home. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service highlights an alarming increase in fires this year compared to last. According to the fire chief, once a fire like this establishes itself, it becomes exceedingly difficult to control.



Suspect charged with arson in New Jersey wildfire

Smoke billowed into the air Thursday as crews in southern New Jersey worked to halt the spread of this massive inferno. A lot of the smoke has to do with the interior burning. This is a good thing. Local law enforcement also announced the arrest of a teenager they alleged started the blaze 19 year old Joseph Kling. Authorities say a joint investigation revealed Kling lit a bonfire using wooden pallets and left before it was fully extinguished. He now faces multiple arson charges. We believe he is the person responsible for starting this fire and we intend to prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law. The wildfire was first spotted Tuesday morning and spread quickly, prompting temporary evacuation orders for thousands of people. 87 year old Patricia or vets is among those happy to be back home. It was scary. I mean the flames were very high and very bright, all different colors. According to the chief of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, there have been more than twice as many fires in the state so far this year than at the same point last year. Once a fire like that gets established, there's no actual catching it. Joseph Kling, who authorities accused of starting this wildfire, will remain in Ocean County Jail until his next court appearance on Tuesday.

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