CHATSWORTH, New Jersey (WABC) — Teen Charged with Aggravated Arson After Massive Jones Road Wildfire

CHATSWORTH, New Jersey (WABC) — Teen Charged with Aggravated Arson After Massive Jones Road Wildfire

A 19-year-old individual is facing serious criminal charges after authorities say a poorly managed bonfire ignited a wildfire that scorched over 10,000 acres of forest in Burlington County, New Jersey. The fire, now known as the Jones Road Fire, became one of the largest wildfires in the state in recent years, prompting evacuations, road closures, and a massive emergency response effort.

The Incident

According to investigators, the teen allegedly started a bonfire near the remote forested area of Chatsworth, located in the heart of the Pine Barrens region. The blaze reportedly began on a windy afternoon, and the suspect is accused of leaving the area without properly extinguishing the fire. Fueled by dry conditions, strong gusts, and an abundance of flammable vegetation, the flames rapidly spread through the densely wooded area.

By the time emergency responders arrived, the fire had already consumed hundreds of acres. Over the following days, it ballooned into a raging wildfire that required the coordinated efforts of multiple fire departments, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, and state police.

Emergency Response and Containment Efforts

Helicopters and aerial tankers were deployed to drop water and fire retardant on the blaze, while crews on the ground worked tirelessly to create fire breaks and protect residential areas. Despite their efforts, the wildfire tore through vast tracts of forest, threatened homes, and forced several communities to evacuate as a precaution.

New Jersey Forest Fire Service officials confirmed that more than 10,000 acres were burned before the fire was fully contained. Smoke from the wildfire drifted across county lines, impacting air quality and visibility in neighboring towns.

Legal Action and Charges

The unnamed 19-year-old has been charged with aggravated arson, a second-degree crime in the state of New Jersey. This charge carries severe penalties, including the possibility of significant prison time if the suspect is convicted. Authorities emphasized the recklessness of the act and the extreme risk it posed not only to the environment but also to public safety.

“Setting a fire and leaving it unattended, especially during a high-risk period for wildfires, is not just irresponsible — it’s criminal,” said one official from the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. “We are fortunate that no lives were lost, but the environmental and economic damage is extensive.”

Environmental and Community Impact

The Jones Road Fire has left a lasting scar on the Pine Barrens, one of the most ecologically significant regions in the northeastern United States. The fire destroyed habitats, threatened endangered species, and severely damaged ecosystems that could take years — if not decades — to recover.

Local residents expressed both anger and heartbreak over the incident. “This place is home,” said one Chatsworth resident. “Watching it go up in smoke because of someone’s careless mistake is devastating.”

Aside from the environmental cost, local businesses that rely on outdoor tourism, such as hiking, camping, and eco-tours, are also expected to suffer setbacks due to closures and the burned landscape.

Calls for Caution and Prevention

Officials are urging the public to be extremely cautious during dry seasons, especially in areas prone to wildfires like the Pine Barrens. Fire bans and restrictions are often in place during such times, but unauthorized fires and negligence continue to be a threat.

“We remind everyone that even a small campfire or bonfire, if left unattended, can spark a disaster,” said Greg McLaughlin, Chief of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. “Prevention starts with awareness and personal responsibility.”

Looking Forward

As the community begins the long process of recovery, state agencies have committed to supporting restoration efforts and reinforcing wildfire prevention education. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly nature’s balance can be disrupted — and how crucial it is to treat fire with the respect and caution it demands.

The investigation remains ongoing, and further charges may be filed as authorities continue to assess the full scope of the damage caused by the Jones Road Fire.