TOMS RIVER, NJ – Edward Petroni, 41, of Plumsted Township, faces multiple charges, including two counts of Aggravated Arson, Burglary, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. These charges stem from incidents occurring in Plumsted Township and Jackson Township on March 1, 2024. Additionally, the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife has charged Petroni with various environmental violations.
Emergency services responded to a reported shed fire on Maple Avenue and Brown Road in Plumsted Township, only to find a bus stop enclosure ablaze. Later, a structure fire was reported in Jackson Township, where an abandoned and decaying building owned by the State of New Jersey was engulfed in flames. Both fires were determined to be the result of arson.
Following a detailed investigation, Petroni was identified as the suspect and was arrested on March 4, 2024. Upon arrest, Petroni was found in possession of two knives. He is currently held at the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.