Cause of Hunterdon County fire that displaced couple, left several firefighters injured under investigation
BETHLEHEM TOWNSHIP, NJ (Hunterdon County) – Detectives from the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey State Police are investigating a structure fire that occurred in Bethlehem Township on Thursday morning, Hunterdon County Acting Prosecutor Michael J. Williams said.
The fire broke out on Sept. 17, at around 11:02 a.m., at a residence on Bellwood Avenue, which is located in the Asbury section of the township, Williams said.
A preliminary investigation revealed that the homeowner returned home from a walk with his
dog to find the home engulfed with smoke. He then went to a neighbor to call 911, Williams said.
Several firefighters were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and overexertion but none sustained serious injuries, Williams said.
The New Jersey Red Cross is assisting the homeowner with shelter and necessities, Williams said.
A GofundMe page has been established to assist the couple, who have lost everything, Williams said.
“I commend the dedication and commitment of the volunteer firefighters from Hunterdon and Warren Counties and everyone who participated for their quick response to this fire. We are grateful to the firefighters that worked throughout the afternoon to extinguish the blaze. We are very fortunate to have such a fine and dedicated volunteer system of brave men and women. I would like to thank Barkley’s Gourmet Marketplace for their generous donation to the family pet,” Williams said.
Assisting agencies included the New Jersey State Fire Marshal’s Office; Pattenburg Rescue; Glen Gardner Fire; Hampton Fire; High Bridge Fire; Quakertown Fire; Lebanon Boro Fire; Bloomsbury Fire; Califon Fire; Lebanon Township Fire; Oldwick Fire; East Whitehouse Fire; Fairmount Fire; Clinton Fire; Hunterdon Medical Center MICU; Kingwood Fire; Raritan Township Fire; the Hunterdon County Hazmat team; and Hunterdon County Communications. Stewartsville and Franklin Fire Departments from Warren County also responded.
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