Federal judge halts order for details on efforts to return Abrego Garcia to US

Key Takeaways:

• Wildfire has burned 13,250 acres as of April 23, 2025.
• Approximately 5,000 residents evacuated from Lacey and Ocean Townships.
• Garden State Parkway was closed but has since reopened.
• Fire is 50% contained; no injuries reported.
• Could be New Jersey’s largest wildfire in 20 years; cause under investigation.

Massive Wildfire Sweeps Through Ocean County

Introduction

A massive wildfire continues to ravage Ocean County, New Jersey, having burned over 13,250 acres as of April 23, 2025. Officials are cautioning that the “Jones Road Wildfire” could become the largest the state has seen in two decades. “This fire could end up being the largest in the state in the past 20 years,” stated New Jersey’s Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn LaTourette during a press conference on Wednesday morning.

Origin and Spread

The wildfire ignited shortly before 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, at the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area in Barnegat Township. Fanned by dry conditions and strong winds, the flames quickly spread to Lacey Township, where they destroyed a business, and further extended into Ocean Township. Massive plumes of white smoke were visible for miles as the fire advanced.

Impact on Residents

Approximately 5,000 residents from Lacey and Ocean Townships were ordered to evacuate as the fire threatened residential areas. “It was alarming how quickly we had to leave,” shared one local resident. By Wednesday, evacuation orders were lifted, allowing people to return to their homes as firefighters made progress in containing the blaze.

Damage and Threats

The wildfire has threatened 12 structures in addition to the business it destroyed. Despite the extensive area affected and the rapid spread, there have been no reported injuries. Authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to evacuation orders and safety guidelines to maintain this record.

Infrastructure Disruptions

Significant disruptions occurred when a stretch of the Garden State Parkway was closed due to the fire, leading to traffic congestion and delays. Thousands experienced power outages on Tuesday, adding to the challenges faced by residents. On Wednesday, the Parkway was reopened, and power was restored to all affected Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) customers.

Containment Efforts

Firefighters from local, county, and state agencies have been tirelessly battling the wildfire. As of 7 p.m. on April 23, the fire was reported to be 50% contained. “Our crews are working around the clock to control and extinguish this fire,” officials stated, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of various fire services.

Investigation

The cause of the Jones Road Wildfire remains under investigation. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities and are urging the public to report any information that might aid in determining how the fire started.

Conclusion

As New Jersey confronts one of its most significant wildfires in recent history, the priority remains the safety of its residents and the swift containment of the blaze. Updates will continue as more information becomes available, and officials urge continued vigilance and cooperation from the community.

[End of Article]