TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Joseph Kling, 19, of Waretown, New Jersey, denies starting a massive wildfire that burned over 15,000 acres in Ocean County in April, claiming others present should have put out the fire.
The wildfire, one of the largest in New Jersey in 20 years, ignited on April 22 near Jones Road in Waretown and was fully contained by May 12. It destroyed at least one building, multiple outbuildings, and vehicles. Kling faces charges including aggravated arson, arson, and hindering apprehension. Prosecutors say Kling set wooden pallets on fire and left before the blaze was fully extinguished.
Kling’s Statement and Legal Proceedings
At a May 19 court appearance, Kling stated there were 19 other people at the bonfire, and he left to help a friend injured in a dirt bike accident. He said he tried to put out the fire by kicking dirt on it and informed police about others present, but felt his statements were ignored. Kling was held in jail until May 5 and is now under home detention with electronic monitoring. He also faces unrelated charges connected to a January brawl.
Second Defendant and Additional Details
A 17-year-old boy was also arrested for the fire, charged with aggravated arson and hindering apprehension. Prosecutors allege both defendants lied to police, falsely blaming the fire on Mexican individuals. Phone records and witness statements contradict this claim. Witnesses, including the girlfriends of the two suspects, say only four people were present when Kling allegedly ignited the pallets soaked with gasoline.
Defense’s Position and Ongoing Investigation
Kling’s attorney insists his client did not start the fire and claims Kling was wrongly targeted. Prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing, with no plea offers extended and the possibility of more charges as additional victims come forward. The state is continuing to assess the overall damage and gather evidence.
Source Attribution
Information sourced from:
- Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office
- NJ.com news report
- Local court records and news outlets