April 12, 2023

OCEAN COUNTY FOREST FIRE BURNS MORE THAN 2,500 ACRES, FORCES EVACUATIONS

***UPDATE 11a.m. Wednesday, April 12

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service says the fire has grown to 3,859 acres in size but is 50% contained. 20 structures remain threatened. All evacuations have been lifted – residents have or are currently returning to their homes. No injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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More than 2,500 acres of forest have burned in Manchester Township, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. Smoke from the fire has been visible for miles along the Garden State Parkway.

As of early Wednesday morning, only 10% of the fire was contained, according to the forest fire service. Mandatory evacuations were ordered in Lakehurst from Division St. to Route 70, Horicon Ave, and Beckerville Road. Approximately 170 structures were evacuated in Manchester and Lakehurst late Tuesday night.

Evacuees relocated to the Manchester Township High School and supported by the American Red Cross, Manchester Township EMS, Manchester Police Department and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department.

Several local fire departments have been battling the blaze, which has led to several road closures, including along Route 70.

Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Fire Department has also been assisting in the fire, which has spread to portions of the base property.