WHITING — A structure fire in the Pine Ridge section of Whiting claimed the life of one person, despite a rapid and aggressive response by local fire crews.
Whiting Fire Company Station 33 was dispatched at approximately 9:10 p.m. on July 9 by the Ocean County Sheriff’s 911 Center following a report of visible flames and smoke coming from a mobile home. Manchester Township Police were first on the scene and confirmed an active structure fire with a possible occupant still inside.
Upon arrival, Chief 3300 took control of interior operations while Assistant Chief 3310 assumed command. Crews encountered heavy interior storage and obstructions that significantly complicated search and suppression efforts.
Engine 3301 arrived shortly after with a full crew. Firefighters launched a coordinated interior attack, splitting into two teams to conduct simultaneous fire suppression and primary search efforts. Under extreme heat and confined conditions, one team advanced a 1¾-inch handline to quickly knock down the fire, while the other searched the home.
Tragically, a victim was located by the suppression team and pronounced at the scene. The identity of the victim has not been released.
The Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, and Manchester Township Police Department are actively investigating the cause of the fire.
“Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones and the Pine Ridge community during this time,” officials said in a statement.
Whiting Fire units responding included Chief 3300, Assistant Chief 3310, Engine 3301, Tanker 3318, and Utilities 3327 and 3337. Mutual aid was provided by Stations 17, 20, 32, 34, 39, 60, and 67 (Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst). Manchester EMS, Manchester Police, the Ocean County Fire Coordinator, and utility companies also responded.
