Authorities in Ocean County, New Jersey, arrest and charge a 19-year-old man in connection with a massive wildfire that has now scorched more than 15,000 acres of forest, making it one of the largest wildfires in the state in nearly 20 years. Joseph Kling of Waretown faces one count of arson and one count of aggravated arson after allegedly starting a bonfire in a wooded area and leaving it improperly extinguished.
According to law enforcement officials, Kling ignites wooden pallets in a secluded area of the woods on Tuesday and departs the scene without ensuring the fire was fully put out. That unattended blaze rapidly spreads, fueled by dry conditions, strong winds, and dense vegetation, transforming into a fast-moving wildfire that now threatens homes, wildlife habitats, and local infrastructure across Ocean County.
Investigators say surveillance footage, eyewitness reports, and physical evidence found at the site lead to Kling’s identification and subsequent arrest. During a press conference Thursday afternoon, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer confirms that Kling is cooperating with the investigation but stresses the seriousness of the charges. “This fire has caused untold damage to our natural environment and posed real danger to our residents. This was not an accident—it was recklessness with devastating consequences,” Billhimer says.
As of Thursday evening, fire crews from across New Jersey, supported by state and federal emergency management teams, continue to battle the blaze, which remains largely uncontained. More than 200 firefighters are engaged in ground operations, and water drops by aircraft are being used to slow the spread toward residential areas and roadways. Several evacuation orders have been issued, and emergency shelters have opened in local schools and community centers for displaced residents.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service says this fire could surpass the size of the 2007 Warren Grove blaze, which burned 17,000 acres and remains the state’s largest fire of the 21st century. “We’re dealing with an incredibly volatile situation,” says Forest Fire Service Chief Greg McLaughlin. “The weather is not cooperating, and the terrain is difficult. This is a complex operation that may take days to bring under full control.”
Environmental experts warn of long-term ecological damage. The fire is impacting large swaths of the Pinelands, a unique ecosystem home to endangered species, including the Pine Barrens tree frog and the Northern pine snake. Smoke from the wildfire is also affecting air quality across several counties, prompting advisories for sensitive populations, including the elderly, children, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
Governor Phil Murphy releases a statement Thursday night, calling the fire a “reminder of how fragile our environment is and how easily one person’s poor decision can affect thousands.” He urges residents to comply with all emergency orders and avoid the fire zone to allow first responders to do their jobs safely.
As the investigation continues, Kling is being held at the Ocean County Jail pending a court appearance. Prosecutors say additional charges could be added depending on the outcome of damage assessments and ongoing inquiries into the full scope of the destruction.
Community leaders and environmental groups are already calling for stricter enforcement and public education around fire safety, especially as New Jersey experiences warmer and drier spring seasons that increase wildfire risks.
