Structure Fire
On April 4th Police, Fire, and EMS units responded to 538 George Road in reference to a structure fire. Toms River Police spokesman Ralph Stocco stated that at approximately 11:20 pm the homeowner was awoken to the sound of an alarm and the smell of smoke. He went to investigate and noticed the kitchen to be on fire. He dialed 911 and evacuated his wife and two children, age 8 and 4. The homeowner then tried to battle the flames with a fire extinguisher until he became overcome with smoke and had to flee.
Fire personnel from East Dover and Silverton responded and brought the fire under control. Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention Inspector Roselli is conducting the investigation along with members of the Toms River Police Department. The cause has yet to be determined. There were no injuries during the incident.
Although tragic, this event highlights the importance of having smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in every home. Had these not been present and in working order we most assuredly would have had more extensive damage to the home and the potential for very serious injuries to this family.