Toms River, NJ — A significant fire early this morning at the Mariners Cove townhome complex prompted a rapid response from the Silverton Volunteer Fire Department and several other local fire units. The incident occurred around 3:20 AM, with firefighters arriving to find two units fully engulfed in flames and the fire spreading to adjacent units.
An initial scare regarding an adult male who was reported unaccounted for was resolved when he was found safe outside the burning structures.
The fire injured two civilians—one adult and one juvenile—who suffered burns and smoke inhalation and were taken to the hospital for treatment. Additionally, three firefighters sustained minor injuries while combating the blaze, with two treated for minor burns and released from the hospital.
Responding units from Pleasant Plains Volunteer Fire Department, East Dover Fire Company, Toms River Fire Company #1 and #2, Ocean Beach Volunteer Fire Company, and Island Heights Volunteer Fire Company were crucial in controlling the fire quickly, which helped limit the damage significantly. Despite their efforts, approximately 10 residents have been displaced, and six housing units were deemed unsafe by the Toms River Building Department, with two suffering severe damage.
The cause of the fire appears accidental and is linked to the failure of energized electrical equipment within the primary affected unit. The Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention, the Toms River Police Department, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office – Major Crimes Arson Squad, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Unit are conducting further investigations.
The Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention has praised all emergency personnel’s swift and effective actions, acknowledging their role in preventing further damage and loss. For more information, the community is encouraged to contact the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention.