Two teenagers have been arrested and charged in connection with the massive Jones Road wildfire that scorched more than 15,000 acres in New Jersey, after investigators determined they deliberately started the blaze by setting wooden pallets on fire.
Joseph Kling, 19, and a 17-year-old co-defendant, both from Ocean County, initially provided authorities with a bizarre and false explanation. According to law enforcement sources, the pair claimed they had seen a group of Mexicans in the woods just before the fire erupted and suggested those individuals were to blame.
However, investigators uncovered evidence contradicting the teens’ story, including text messages on their phones that refuted the claim and supported their involvement in starting the fire. Multiple witnesses interviewed during the investigation also named Kling and his accomplice as the culprits.
Kling is currently facing multiple charges, including aggravated arson, arson, and hindering apprehension. The juvenile has been charged with aggravated arson and hindering apprehension. Both remain in custody.
According to fire officials, the fire originated in the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Forked River Mountains Wilderness Area and was first spotted from the Cedar Bridge Fire Tower on April 22. Emergency crews worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, which reached 80% containment by May 3. Around 5,000 residents in Ocean and Lacey townships were evacuated as a precaution.
The fire also caused property damage, including the destruction of Liberty Door and Awning, several outbuildings, and multiple vehicles.
Lacey Township Mayor Peter Curatolo voiced concern for the wildlife affected by the wildfire. “It’s a wildlife preserve, it’s a pristine part of our township, and I don’t know how many animals were lost, and I feel like they need advocacy, too,” he told News 12.
Officials later confirmed that GPS tracking helped pinpoint the fire’s origin, leading to the conclusion that it was caused by an improperly extinguished bonfire. “Further investigation has revealed that Kling was the individual responsible for setting wooden pallets on fire—and then leaving the area without ensuring the fire was fully extinguished,” investigators said.
The case has sparked broader discussions about wildfire prevention, accountability, and the dangers of spreading false information during emergency situations.
Sources By Agencies
