Fireworks Started New Jersey Forest Fire That Burned 4,000 Acres: Officials

Fireworks have been identified as the cause of the wildfire burning in New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest.

The fire, which has burned more than 4,000 acres, was 75% contained by Sunday, officials said.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service reported that a “fireworks device lighted inside the forest ignited the fire” late Thursday, July 4. The fire, named the Tea Time Hill Wildfire, was discovered shortly after 9 a.m. the following day.

No structures have been threatened by the fire and no evacuations have been ordered. Several hiking trails and nearby roads have been closed.

The investigation directed by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service also involved the State Park Police, the State Division of Fire Safety, and the Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office.

Anyone with further information about the fire that could aid in the investigation is urged to call the New Jersey State Park Police tip line at 844-PARK-TIP (844-727-5847).