Toms River, New Jersey, is one of those iconic Shore towns that packs a lot of charm and history into its borders. It’s got a little bit of everything—athletic pride, pop culture connections, and a spooky side that adds a whole lot of character.
Let’s dive into what makes this place tick.
First up, Toms River is practically royalty in Little League baseball. The town’s team won the Little League World Series in 1998, led by none other than Todd Frazier, who went on to have an MLB career with the Yankees, Mets, and other teams. The Little League field is a point of pride, and Frazier’s journey from local hero to the big leagues is a perfect example of the town’s sports legacy.
Speaking of sports, Toms River High School North, especially its football team, has its own recent legend status. The Mariners have taken home multiple state championships, making the town a hotspot for New Jersey high school football greatness.
This year, the Mariners are 4-0 and on the right path to win their third straight state title.
But Toms River isn’t just about touchdowns and home runs. It’s also a gateway to the Jersey Shore’s barrier islands. Whether you’re heading to Seaside Heights (shoutout to the Jersey Shore MTV show fans) or Ortley Beach, Toms River is the starting point for summer beach trips, boardwalk strolls, and plenty of fried food indulgence.
- Ocean County confirms plans for homeless campus in Toms RiverTOMS RIVER, NJ – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners has confirmed a controversial plan to develop a homeless shelter on Route 166 in Toms River, near the Villa Amalfi Italian Restaurant, validating earlier claims by Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick. Initially, Ocean County Chairman George Gilmore, the primary backer behind New Jersey Gubernatorial candidate
- Ex-Walmart employee pleads guilty to bomb hoax, arson in Ocean CountyTOMS RIVER, NJ — A 20-year-old Little Egg Harbor Township man has pleaded guilty to creating a false public alarm and aggravated arson, stemming from a December 2023 bomb threat and a January 2024 residential fire, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced Monday. Ethan Salter entered guilty pleas before Judge Dina M. Vicari in
- Mo Hill Team’s Latest Election Campaign Could Breath New Life Into Downtown Toms River Twin Tower ProjectTOMS RIVER, N.J. — The Mo Hill Team for Toms River, led by Councilmen James Quinlisk and David Ciccozzi, has officially launched their re-election campaign for the Toms River Township Council, signaling a fierce Republican primary battle set for June 10, 2025. Joined by runningmates Robert Bianchini and Clinton Bradley, the team is rallying supporters
- Lakewood man found dead in Toms River lagoonTOMS RIVER, N.J. — A 45-year-old Lakewood man was found dead in a waterway behind a residential neighborhood in Toms River on Friday, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office. Julian Lopez-Martinez was discovered by officers from the Toms River Township Police Department around April 25 in the vicinity of Point O’ Woods Drive. Responding
- Toms River cop in jail after resisting arrest for violent home invasionBERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ — An off-duty Toms River Township police officer was arrested after allegedly breaking into a home, assaulting two victims, damaging property, and resisting arrest late Friday night, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced Monday. Rebecca Sayegh, 32, of Toms River, faces multiple charges including home invasion burglary, two counts of assault,
On a more eerie note, Toms River is tied to the real-life events that inspired the Amityville Horror. The famous house from the novel and movies was recreated here, sending chills down locals’ spines long before ghost tours were a thing. The house used in the movie still stands today.
And if Halloween is your vibe, the Toms River Halloween Parade is an absolute must-see. It’s one of the largest Halloween parades in the world, where residents go all out with creative, sometimes downright outrageous costumes.