NJ Teen Charged After Gasoline Fire Injures 7 at NYE Party

An Ocean County teen has been charged with six counts of Arson in connection with a flash fire that occurred in Berkeley Township at a New Year's Eve party.

At about 8 pm on December 31st, Berkeley Township Police, Fire and EMS were called to a home on North Trenton Avenue in Berkeley Township for a report of a fire and several people injured, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer said.

Officials say the fire was started by a minor who poured gasoline into a fire pit, causing a flash fire.

Teen Repeatedly Poured Gas Into a Firepit

The police investigation determined a group of people were in the backyard of the home when the teen repeatedly poured a large amount of gasoline out of a five-gallon can into the fire pit – resulting in a flash fire.

The fire caused injuries to six people in attendance at the party, as well as to the teen.

The minor's name is not being given because of his age.

Interviews with the six people who were burned and the teen confirmed that it was pouring gas onto a fire that led to this incident and the injuries that they recieved.

Ring doorbell footage from the back porch area of the home showed the scene unfolding and confirmed the statements.

The Teen Has Been Charged

The Ocean County Prosecutor announced that the minor has been charged with six counts of arson in connection with a flash fire.