WEST ORANGE, N.J. — A lightning strike ignited a fire at the Sea Turtle Recovery Building within the Turtle Back Zoo late Wednesday night, according to officials. The blaze, which began around 9:45 p.m., caused damage to the roof of the facility and exposed several turtles to heavy smoke.
The West Orange Fire and Police Departments responded to the scene, supported by Essex County officers and additional mutual aid units. Although Nutley Hazmat was initially requested, the team was later canceled as the fire was brought under control.
Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. confirmed in a Thursday morning statement that the turtles housed in the building were safely relocated to the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society in New York. One turtle, named Pickles, was particularly affected by the smoke but has since been moved to a safe location.
The fire was successfully extinguished, and an investigation into the incident is currently underway.