BERKELEY HOLIDAY CITY FATAL FIRE UPDATE
On Saturday (1/10) fire investigators returned to 77 Encinitas Drive to continue their fire investigation and scene examination. Following an extensive examination, it was determined preliminary that the fire originated on the family room couch which was located along the north wall. The cause of this fire is tentatively classified accidental with careless smoking unable to be eliminated as the cause of the fire. Identification of the victim is still pending the Medical Examiners findings.
The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department K9 Unit assisted with their ignitable liquid detection K9 and results were negative during the K9 sniff. Follow up interviews were conducted throughout the day to corroborate previous interviews.
It shall be noted that the decedent was the only person in the home at the time of the fire. Various rumors have been spread that the fire was intentionally set after various threats by other individuals known to the victim. Those rumors do not stand true and have been investigated fully – Al Della Fave.