A shocking turn of events unfolded on the East Coast, as a 19-year-old teenager was accused of starting a massive wildfire that is affecting thousands at the moment.
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A New Jersey teen faces serious charges after his careless bonfire ignited a massive 15,000-acre wildfire that forced thousands from their homes.
Joseph Kling has been charged with aggravated arson for causing the devastating blaze in the protected Pine Barrens wilderness area, devastating local communities and draining emergency resources.
Kling was arrested and charged today, after authorities determined he started the catastrophic wildfire by burning wooden pallets in the Forked River Mountains Wilderness Area.
The bonfire quickly spiraled out of control in the drought-prone region, creating a massive environmental disaster that threatens to become New Jersey’s largest wildfire in 20 years.
The blaze began two days ago around 9:45 a.m. near Jones and Bryant roads in Ocean Township and was first spotted from the Cedar Bridge Fire Tower in Barnegat Township.
As winds picked up and vegetation quickly ignited, the fire spread through the Pine Barrens, a state and federally protected reserve notorious for its susceptibility to forest fires due to its quick-draining sandy soil and current drought conditions.
Local officials were forced to evacuate approximately 5,000 residents from Ocean and Lacey Townships as the wildfire raged through the region.
While evacuation orders have since been lifted, the fire has already destroyed at least one commercial building.
As of the latest reports, it continues to threaten 12 additional structures despite being 50% contained.
During firefighting efforts, Jersey Central Power and Light Company was forced to cut power to approximately 25,000 customers.
This left many hard-working Americans without electricity as emergency crews battled to contain the inferno.
“Safety is our top priority and all restoration timing will be determined by the safety of firefighters, our crews and the public. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time,” the company declared.
In addition, the environmental impact extends well beyond New Jersey’s borders, with the massive smoke plume triggering air quality advisories in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester and Rockland Counties.
Officials estimate the fire may not be fully extinguished until at least Saturday, prolonging the environmental and economic damage to the region.
Kling is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail awaiting a detention hearing.
If convicted, he could face severe penalties for his reckless actions that endangered countless lives, destroyed property, and ravaged a protected natural area that belongs to all Americans.
