On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at approximately 9:40 pm, officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to the area of Riverside Drive to investigate a report of an active structure fire.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed a shed in the side yard of a residence on Riverside Drive, fully involved with flames. At this time, officers successfully evacuated all occupants of the adjacent residence. Due to joint efforts of the Manchester Township Communications Division and the Ocean County Sherriff’s Office Communications Division, several fire companies were dispatched to the scene and ultimately distinguished the fire.
One occupant of the residence was transported to the hospital by Manchester Emergency Medical Services to be treated for smoke inhalation. The adjacent residence sustained damage to the exterior siding but was determined to not be extensive. The Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office arrived at the scene and conducted a preliminary investigation, which revealed the fire to be accidental.
The Manchester Township Police Departments extends gratitude to Manchester Emergency Medical Services, Berkeley Emergency Medical Services and the following departments for their responses and assistance: Manchester Volunteer Fire Company, Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company, Whiting Volunteer Fire Company, and Jersey Central Power & Light.