Serving NEW JFire, ERSEY Serving Rescue
Volume 21, No. 4
W W W.FIRENE WS .COM
See story on page 7. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Fire,Serving Rescue The Magazine & EMS Fire, Rescue Serving & EMS Heroes &Fire, EMS Heroes Rescue Heroes Since Heroes 1973 1996 &Since EMS Since 1973
September 2026
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 3
In this issue... Mountainside House Fire Hindered by Hoarding The heavy hoarding encountered lead to a defensive attack on the fire. See story on page 4
Home Fire Extends in Middletown Crews were dispatched to a reported house fire with neighboring structures suffering from heat damage. See story on page 6
Long Fight at Medford 5-Alarmer Report of a fire at the Fellowship Alliance Chapel followed an apparent lightning strike. See story on page 17
Atlantic County Graduating FF1 Class 39 probationary firefighters graduated in the Spring 2026 Firefighter 1 Class. See story on page 20
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer GARY P. JOYCE, Editor MYLES QUINN, Long Island Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant GREG JONES, Graphic Artist DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus FIRE NEWS NEW JERSEY PHOTOGRAPHERS Chad Aaronson, John Axford, Keith Addie, Adam Alberti, Ted Aurig, Kenneth E.Badger, Dick Berry, Tommy Bilancia, Thomas Bischoff, James Bonner, Joseph Brecko, John Buttino, Bob Chester, John Clark, Alex Coulter, Carl Crossman, Damien Davis, Chris Denton, Alan Dumoff, Brian Duddy, Brett M. Dzadik, Dan Eckert, Doug Fenichel, Tom Finnegan, Joe Fortunato, Liam Glinane, Israel Goldstein, Thomas Hayden Jr., David Hernandez, Robert Halberstadt, Roman Izaryk, Erica Jacoby, Jeffrey Konya, Kevin Maloney, Robert Munson, Paul Newborn, Robert F. Newkirk, Denis Niland, Mike Nowacki, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, Mark Rosetti, Chris Saraceno, Robert Scollan, Dennis C. Sharpe, Steve Sperlak, Steve Skipton, Matt Spadaro, Danielle Tagerty, Tim Sullivan, Robert Tallaksen, Wayne Tasaki, Giuseppe Tartaglia, Jim Trepeos, Gregory Taylor, Ron Trout, Ken VanPelt, Kevin Umbach, Jose Vazquez, Ronnie Viola, Tom Vogel, Tom Walker, Mike Wallace, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder. COPYRIGHT 2026, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions A 3-Alarmer in Industrial Area of Carlstadt On arrival, crews discovered heavy fire in the rear of a large warehouse. See story on page 26
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1 Car Over a Bridge, Driver Found Later Crews found a car in the water but were unable to locate any occupants. See story on page 30
PLUS: Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 28 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 31 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33 Focus of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 34 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 36
of the NJ State Firemen’s Convention Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
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House Fire Fight Hindered by Hoarding On June 14, 2026, the Mountainside Fire Department was alerted for a working house fire on Chipmunk Hill in Mountainside. EMS arrived first and confirmed heavy smoke showing. Fire crews arrived and transmitted a second alarm. Crews encountered heavy hoarding conditions throughout the home, which lead to a defensive attack on the fire. Mutual aid from Westfield, Scotch Plains and Springfield responded to the scene to help bring the fire under control. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Home Fire Extends in Middletown The Middletown Township Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire in the 100 block of East Road in the Belford section. Chief D’Arcy arrived, observed a visible smoke column, and requested an additional alarm. Crews began fire suppression and ventilation, while additional crews investigated neighboring structures that sustained significant heat damage to their vinyl siding. Crews used an aggressive interior attack with hoselines and were able to knock down the fire. Approximately 55 volunteers assisted in bringing the fire under control. The fire was under investigation by the Middletown Township Fire Prevention Office, under the direction of Edward ‘Buddy’ Skelly. - Submitted by Rob Allan, Middletown FD; photos by MTFD photographer Laurie Kegley
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Cover Story
Rain, Wind & Lightning Causes Fire in River Edge
On the evening of July 4, 2026, a line of severe thunderstorms rolled across central and northern Bergen County with lighting strikes, heavy rain and damaging wind gusts. During the storm the River Edge Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Midland Avenue for a report of wires arcing. While responding, Chief of Department Bill Sanders discovered wire downs and burning on
Solar Panels Catch Fire in Paterson
Paterson Fire Department operated at a working fire on Arlington Avenue. Solar panels were on fire on the roof of a 2-1/2 frame with extension to the attic on July 1, 2026. - Fire News photo by Eric ‘Doc’ Moran
Fifth Avenue. The fire was spreading rapidly and, with the home quickly becoming well involved, second and third alarms were requested. Eventually, the building started to collapse due to the fire and tree resting on the roof. Two firefighters suffered minor injuries, and were transported to the hospital and later released. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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House Fire Causes Major Damage in Dorothy
Transformer Fire Quickly Handled
The Dorothy and Milmay fire departments responded to Elm Court in the Oaks of Weymouth housing development for the report of a structure fire. The initial call was for a porch on fire but when firefighters arrived the structure was well involved. Dorothy Chief Jess Hand arrived and firefighters already on scene pulled a crosslay and began hitting the fire. Chief Hand established command, and began calling for mutual aid from surrounding communities. As mutual aid began arriving, firefighters assisted in suppression and exposure protection. The fire took several hours to bring under control and the structure sustained major damage. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
A transformer fire knocked out power for multiple residents on Beech Street. Crews worked quickly to knock down the fire. - Fire News photo by Michael Saggau, Jr.
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2 Fires at Same Time on the Fourth During the evening of July 4, 2026, the Iselin Fire Department was dispatched to Washington Avenue for a structure fire with reported entrapment. First arriving units had heavy smoke and visible fire showing. This incident occurred simultaneously with a fully involved structure fire on Commercial Avenue in the Avenue section of Woodbridge Township. - Fire News photo by Brett Ayers, WoodbridgeTownshipFirePictures
Camden Crews Halt Fire Camden crews arrived to a two-story stand-alone with heavy fire at Louis Street and Liberty Street in Camden. The fire was placed under control in about 15 minutes. - Fire News photo by Ed Hutchinson
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Vent Stack Fire Quicky Stopped The Mays Landing, Laureldale and Cologne departments responded to Old Harding Highway, in the Indian Oaks Apartments, for a report of smoke coming out of the roof. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine arrived, established command, and had arriving crews open up walls to check for extension. When firefighters opened up, they discovered a smoldering fire in a shaft that contained a vent stack with fire that had traveled up the entire length of the structure. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Car Fire Stopped on Route 80 A call for a car fire on Route 80 East, just before exit 27, came in just as a storm in the area started to calm down. Budd Lake crews responded and arrived to a well involved car fire. Crews quickly doused the flames. There were no injuries. - Fire News photo by Kevin Maloney
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Car Ignites at Salvage Yard in Bargaintown The Bargaintown and Scullville volunteer fire companies responded to S. Mtount Airy Avenue after a nearby caller, who was golfing, reported seeing smoke in the area. Firefighters arrived to find a vehicle on fire at National Salvage. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe established command and had the crew stretch one line, quickly knocking down the fire. The fire was contained to one vehicle and was under investigation. – Fire News photo by Ken Badger
2 Getty Ave. Houses Bring 2nd Alarm The Paterson Fire Department battled a second alarm fire with heavy fire in two buildings, on Getty Avenue. Two injured firefighters were transported to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Ron Bombaro
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“SO THEY CLIMB”- A 911 Tribute to the 343 Responders This year the Burn Foundation artist Joseph Getsinger and 3D artist Jarryd Ley created a very unique image titled “SO THEY CLIMB” as a tribute to the 343 first responders who sacrificed their lives twenty-five years ago on 9-11-2001. You can meet them at the New Jersey Firemen’s Convention in Wildwood, N.J. on Friday, September 18 and 19, 2026. The number one framed Giclee’ canvas print of will be the top prize at the raffle along with 25 limited edition prints signed by both Joe Getsinger and Jarryd Ley. That raffle will be drawn on Saturday, September 19th at 1:00pm. FIRE & SAFETY SERVICES, Ltd. President David Russell was again proud to be the sponsor of the Burn Foundation. He actually came up with the theme of Firefighters involved with a Stair Climb Tribute. Getsinger took it from there to create this image partnered with 3D artist Jarryd Ley. David Russell has consistently supported the Burn Foundation and Joe for over 25 years, plus the printing costs of each year’s raffle tickets for the annual NJ State Firefighters Convention in Wildwood. In 2024 David also started sponsoring the special edition collector pins that contain the fundraising image. These have become very popular and are very much in demand. This year we are also celebrating the third anniversary of artist Jarryd Ley of West Deptford, N.J., who has joined forces with Getsinger to create a unique 3-D fundraising image of Getsinger’s artwork for this convention.
shoots, which included (left to right in the picture): Anton Horwitz – Deputy Chief, Steve Christinzio – Chief, Firefighters: Abi Sherm, Alex Horwitz, Austin Crew, Chase Nana, Chuckie Crompton, Emma Horwitz, Charles Cannon, and Assistant Chief David Misilewich. There is another part of this unique print that Getsinger wanted to add to this image. You will notice when you see the 1st prize Giclee’ canvas print and the prints, the red, white and blue ribbons surrounding the image. Within those ribbons are the complete names and titles of the 343 - 1st Responders. These prints will be 24” X 24” which is larger than our normal 20”X24” print. We had to make the prints larger so we could fit all the 343 names and titles in the ribbons which is easy to read. These prints and canvas editions will be available at: www.jgetsingerarts.com The raffle tickets will also be available at only one gate closest to the Convention Center or at the Burn Foundation set up on the stage nearest the gate. Burn Foundation volunteers will also be at the one gate to offer the raffle tickets and the limited-edition Collector Pins. The artists plan to be at the “Glasstown Antique Fire Brigade” at Wheaton Village on Sunday, August 16th from 10am to 4pm with raffle tickets for the Burn Foundation and a sneak peek at the prints for this year. Be sure to come down and check it out, and enjoy the Antique Fire apparatus, activities and the flea market. A special note of interest at Woodbury Heights Fire Department: If you visit there, ask for a tour of their front entrance and stairway. Assistant Chief David Misilewich has stairway walls and second floor decorated with framed artwork of Joe Getsinger’s firefighter prints from throughout the years. There are also a couple of canvas prints, and an original acrylic painting titled “Fire and Ice” displayed there. You can also visit the Gloucester County Fire Academy at 200 County House Road in Clarksboro, N.J. to see other Getsinger’s art prints. He recently donated his original paintings of “Fire Academy I” and “Fire Academy 2” to their new addition, which expanded their training ability and capacity.
In early January, Getsinger envisioned an image based on the sponsor’s suggestion to honor those first responders who sacrificed their lives on 9/11/2001 during the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York City. 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of that tragic event. Joe contacted Fire Chief Stephen Christinzio and Deputy Chief Anton Horwitz of Woodbury Heights Fire Department who were proud to be a part of Getsinger’s creation, and photoshoot, especially since it was a tribute to the 343 first responders who sacrificed their lives. We would like to thank the firefighters who participated in the photo-
The Burn Foundation is located at 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, Pa. 19082. Its mission supports the burn patient and burn care communities in the tristate area. You can donate online at: www.burnfoundation.org or call (215) 545-3816.
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 17
Long Fight at Medford 5 Alarmer
On July 3, 2026, at 2110 hours, the Burlington County Fire Alarm Room dispatched the Medford Fire Department and automatic aid companies to Church Road in Medford for the report of a fire at the Fellowship Alliance Chapel. First arriving units reported fire showing from the roof area of a large multi-story church following an apparent lightning strike. Additional alarms were quickly transmitted to get the needed resources on scene to prevent the fire from spreading throughout the building. Several ladder companies ascended to the roof to direct, vent and extinguish the fire. After a very manpower-intensive effort and five-plus alarms from three South Jersey counties, the fire was placed under control at 0026 on July 4, 2026. - Fire News photos by Frank Saia
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Dorothy Fire & Rescue Annual BBQ
It's officially summer! The Dorothy Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company held their 2026 BBQ under bright and sunny skies. Eat-in and take-out were available with vendors, raffles and baked goods available to support the Ladies Auxiliary. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Atlantic County Graduating FF1 Class The Atlantic County Firefighters Association graduated their Spring 2026 Firefighter 1 Class on July 13, 2026. A total of 39 probationary firefighters graduated. After remarks were given, a slide show presentation showcasing their training was shown. Each student was presented with a certificate of completion. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 21
Car Accident vs Pole with Overturn in Mays Landing
One Way to Get a Drive-Thru Garage
Mays Landing and Laureldale fire departments responded to Black Horse Pike for the report of an MVA and fire. First responders arrived to find a passenger vehicle on its side with a utility pole, transformer, and wires down. The passenger vehicle struck a pickup truck, hit the pole, and overturned. The occupant self-extricated, and no fire was found. Firefighters stood by until the vehicle was removed with the scene being turned over to the electric company. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
On June 30, 2026, Brick’s Technical Rescue Team was requested to Heywood Court for a car versus building. Units arrived to find a vehicle that had driven through the attached garage bowing out the rear wall. The TRT was able to shore up the structure and the driver refused medical attention. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Friendly Field Day with Local Companies
27 Acres of Marsh Burned in Germania
The 2026 Monmouth County Fair included an evening of friendly field day style competition among various fire companies including Adelphia, Colts Neck, Fair Haven, Farmingdale, Ramtown, Red Bank and Shrewsbury. - Submitted by Chris Pujat, Adelphia FC
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service, along with the Germania Fire Company from Galloway Township, responded to Hay Road for a report of a marsh fire. The fire consumed 27 acres of salt marsh and meadowlands before being brought under control with the assistance of helicopter water drops. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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3-Alarm Warehouse Fire in Totowa
Totowa Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Furler Street. Upon arrival, command transmitted a second alarm, reporting a working fire in a large warehouse with fire through the roof. Crews forced entry and the main body of the fire was knocked down in about an hour. Crews reported the fire in the roof membrane requiring extensive overhaul and opening up. Command transmitted a third alarm for manpower, bringing additional mutual aid to the scene. The fire took over two hours to be placed under control. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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A 3-Alarmer in Industrial Area of Carlstadt
The Carlstadt Fire Department responded to multiple reports of a building fire on Washington Avenue, an area consisting of numerous factories and warehouses. While en route, companies could see a large column of black smoke visible for miles. On arrival, crews discovered heavy fire in the rear of a large warehouse. A second alarm was immediately requested and command reported explosions and fire through the roof. Mutual aid companies were advised to bring water in from several hydrants up to a half-mile away as ladder companies set up their aerial streams. A third alarm was transmitted for station coverage and the main body of fire was knocked down in just under an hour. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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TRAINING
Pleasantville Holds Cadet Training The Pleasantville Fire Department held its second annual Cadet Academy. The academy lasted four days and focused on various areas including physical fitness, hoseline management, CPR, ropes and knots. During the celebration ceremony the cadets and their families were in attendance as they received certificates for successfully completing the academy. – Fire News photos by Eric ‘Doc’ Moran
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1 Car Over a Bridge, Driver Found Later Under Train The Ridgefield Park Fire Department (RPFD) responded to reports of an MVA on Interstate 80 bridge with a car, or possibly two, off the bridge and into the river. Hackensack Fire Department was also receiving calls for a serious MVA on the bridge. Hackensack units arrived at the MVA and reported two vehicles involved with injuries and witnesses confirming a car went over the side. RPPD and RPFD units found a car in the water after dropping approximately 120 feet. A police Sergeant waded out into the water but was unable to locate any occupants. Dive teams were requested and several boats were launched searching the area for any victims. Drones were also used, but all searches were negative. Approximately 40 minutes into the incident, NJ State Troopers along with RPPD units located the lone occupant/driver who was found hiding under a train car in a nearby yard with minor injuries. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
Egg Harbor Hosts Breakfast for Forest Fire Service Div. C
The Egg Harbor City Fire Station served as the host for the New Jersey Forest Fire Service Division C breakfast. Breakfast was cooked by Division C personnel, with a cooler and a backpack blower raffled off. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 31
Up Close & Personal Dorothy Fire and Rescue’s Carla Gibney working at the annual fire company BBQ. Carla’s husband, Bob, was Chief for many years. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Tri Care EMS Supervisor Matt Sharpe with Farmington Assistant Chief Dennis Sharpe (‘Uncle Dennis’) at the Glendale Avenue job in Pleasantville on July 25, 2026. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
The Countdown to the 28th Annual NJEPA Conference Begins! Planning is officially underway for the 28th Annual New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Conference (NJEPA), and we’re excited to kick off another year of collaboration, education and innovation! Mark your calendars! The 28th Annual NJEPA Conference will be held April 12–16, 2027, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, bringing together emergency management professionals from across New Jersey and beyond for a week of education, networking, and collaboration. Call for Papers opened on September 1, and we invite emergency management professionals, first responders, healthcare partners, public safety leaders, government officials, and subject matter experts to share their knowledge and experience with the New Jersey emergency preparedness community. Whether you have lessons learned from recent incidents, innovative programs, emerging technologies, or best practices to share, we encourage you to submit a proposal and help shape this year’s outstanding educational program. Interested in presenting? Visit the Call for Papers page at www.njepa.org for submission requirements, presentation tracks, and additional details.
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Van Lands on It’s Side in Collings Lakes The Collings Lakes Volunteer Fire Company, along with BLS and New Jersey State Police, responded to Mays Landing Road and Eighth Street for an MVA with overturn. Collings Lakes firefighters, under the command of Albert Valentino, arrived to find no entrapment but a passenger vehicle on its side. Firefighters stood by until the vehicle was up-righted and then disabled the battery. The incident is being investigated by the New Jersey State Police. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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FINANCIAL FITNESS FOR FIREFIGHTERS You Speak, We’re Listening: Finances Are Crucial To Your Health And Wellness By Ryan Fields-Spack – Associate Director, Responder Wellness, FirstNet®, Built with AT&T Imagine you’ve just been relieved from another grueling firehouse shift. Eighteen calls in 24 hours and almost no sleep. Driving home, your mind drifts from the controlled chaos of the engine to the stack of bills waiting for you. Mortgage payments, student loans, credit card debt—the financial worries that refuse to take a backseat despite the lifesaving work you do. In my 25 years of experience in emergency response, including 7 years with the FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG), I’ve seen firsthand how financial stress can impact the mental health and overall well-being of first responders. And in your responses to the 2026 “What Firefighters Want” survey, you were loud and clear: Firefighters want help with financial well-being. Why Financial Wellness Matters Financial stability is important to a good quality of life. But many firefighters face a unique challenge: the pride and satisfaction of doing their dream job can quickly give way to the realities of the work. In the past, we were expected to figure it out on our own. Things have changed now, and we know that by addressing these financial stressors, you can improve your mental health, job performance, and overall quality of life. As a result, FirstNet has partnered with Ramsey SmartDollar to pilot financial wellness programs specifically tailored to first responders. Created by Dave Ramsey, widely regarded as a financial literacy pioneer, these programs enable fire districts to provide practical tools and resources to help firefighters manage finances, reduce debt, and build a secure financial future. Key Components of Financial Wellness Financial wellness boils down to a few core practices:
1. Creating a budget: It may not be easy or fun, but creating a budget provides a sense of accomplishment and control. 2. Eliminating debt: Getting and staying debt-free is central to true financial wellness. 3. Building an emergency fund: Handling life’s surprises without panic requires a cash cushion. 4. Investing for the future: Build a clear path toward retirement and long-term goals. 5. Changing behavior: Knowing what to do isn’t the problem — doing it is. Real wellness starts with changing money habits. The SmartDollar program guides you step-by-step through each of these to financial stability. You’ll learn how to stick to a budget, get out of debt, save for the future, and build wealth. When it comes to dealing with emergencies, firefighters love a good standard operating procedure. Well, this plan is for you, for transforming your own—and your family’s—futures. FirstNet understands that your job is more than just a profession— it’s a calling. And while we’re known for providing reliable communication during emergencies, we also care deeply about your overall well-being. Taking care of your financial health is just as important as helping to make sure you have the connectivity you need when and where it matters most. Take control of your financial future and learn more about the SmartDollar program.
2ND ANNUAL 9/11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB AT MET LIFE STADIUM IN HONOR OF THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11 TO RAISE FUNDS FOR NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION SEPTEMBER 12, 2026 Join us on Saturday, September 12 at MetLife Stadium as we come together for the 2nd annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb as we honor the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 and fund the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support the families of the 343 fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Service Unit. Registration opened July 15, 2026.
Keep up with our social media pages and future email blasts for registration link. ALL raised funds will go to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. To learn more about their mission, visit firehero.org. For any questions or to inquire about volunteering and sponsorships, please email nj911climb@fss.com
2027 NOVFA REGIONAL FIRE SCHOOL MARCH 20-21, 2027 The Northwest Ohio Volunteer Firemen’s Association (NOVFA) provides quality training to first responders from across the Midwest. Through realistic Hands-on-Training (HOT), Seminars, and Officers Development programs, our goal is to equip first responders with life-saving tactics, tools for operational needs, and survival skills. To accomplish this, NOVFA brings together leaders in Fire/EMS training and education who pass on their knowledge while celebrating the traditions of the service. Our 2026 Regional Fire School was a great success, with over 750 attendees issued more than 1,000 CE
credits, and over 40 vendors on campus. The 2027 Regional Fire School is scheduled for Saturday, March 20, and Sunday, March 21, 2027 at the Penta Career Center in Perrysburg, Ohio. This year, NOVFA is again collaborating with the Northwest Ohio HazMAT Conference and the Ohio Youth Fire and EMS Training Academy to provide specialized training. For more information, please visit the Fire School website at https://www.novfafireschool.org/ or follow us on Facebook.
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Totowa Handles Car Fire on Riverview Drive Totowa Fire Department was dispatched to Riverview Drive for a reported car fire. Crews quickly put out the fire without incident. - Fire News photos by Ron Bombaro
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 35
Driver Trapped After MVA in Cardiff
Cardiff and Bargaintown Fire Departments responded to Fernwood Avenue for an MVA with entrapment. Firefighters arrived to find a vehicle on its side with entrapment. Cardiff Chief Bill Danz III established command, and had the vehicle stabilized and then a windshield removal performed. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Trauma Patient Transported by RWJ LifeFlight On July 8, 2026, East Dover and Island Heights fire companies established an LZ at the Toms River East Little League Fields for RWJ LifeFlight to transport a trauma patient to Jersey Shore Medical Center. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Fatal House Fire in Orange Takes 2 Lives
On July 11, 2026, the Orange Fire Department battled a five-alarm fire. Sadly, two people passed away in the fire on Park Place. - Fire News photos by Ron Bombaro
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 37
Car Fire at Public Works Complex
On July 5, 2026, the Bargaintown Fire Department responded to the public works complex on Mill Road for a report of a vehicle fire. Bargaintown Assistant Chief Wil Hancock arrived, established command, and reported a working vehicle fire. Upon their arrival, crews quickly brought the fire under control. The cause was under investigation by the EHTFD Fire Official and EHT Police. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Motorcoach Bus on Fire in Little Falls On July 22, 2026, the Little Falls Fire Department and mutual aid companies, operated at a motorcoach bus heavily involved on Route 46 West. - Fire News photos by Ron Bombaro
Page 38, Fire News, September 2026
Tribute
Malaga’s Robert Reider On June 27, 2026, at approximately 1031 hours, Probationary Firefighter Robert (‘Bobby’) Reider was involved in an MVA while responding to a fire call. He was traveling north on Delsea Drive when his vehicle left the roadway. Units from Station 43-4, responding to the original call, diverted and responded to the accident. Forest Grove Fire Company (43-5) handled the original call. While on location, crews had to extricate Bobby from his vehicle, and he was immediately airlifted to Cooper Hospital, where he had been since with severe traumatic injuries. On July 10, 2026, Bobby succumbed to his injuries and passed away at 23-years old. His service and dedication will never be forgotten. Bobby joined the fire company in 2018 as a 16-year old junior firefighter. He attended Fire 1 at Salem County Fire Academy in 2022 where he was awarded a certificate of completion. Year after year, Bobby had exemplary attendance at calls, drills and meetings. His heart and passion for community service was one of a kind. Please keep his family in your thoughts and in your prayers. We would like to thank everyone who has already reached out in support. Rest in peace Bobby, you will be missed. - Submitted by Malaga Fire Company
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