UPDATE: Woman Found Dead in Toms River Fire; Arson Unit Investigating
TOMS RIVER — Flames engulfed a home and damaged four others in the Silverton section of Toms River Township, according to multiple reports and media posted by local fire companies.
Firefighters responded to a unit block on 15th street near Aldo Road for a report of a structure fire around 11:30 pm on Friday.
Strong winds fueled the flames which melted sidings and exteriors to residences, according to 6ABCNews.
More than 60 firefighters responded to the blaze. No injuries have been reported.
The fire remains under investigation.
Update: 12:30 PM
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer provided an update late Saturday morning, which revealed that the structure was occupied by two adults and three children at the time of the fire.
A male and three children were able to escape from the fire, but a female remained inside. Firefighters discovered her body after they successfully doused the flames.
Furthermore, a Toms River Township Police Officer was transported to Community Medical Center for smoke inhalation.
Billhimer confirmed that the fire is being investigated by the Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, "We are not releasing the name of the deceased until proper notifications are made," he said in a statement.
"It's a sad day for everyone involved," Billhimer concluded.
This is a developing story. The latest will be posted as it becomes available.
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