Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File photo
Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File Photo

Carlstadt house fire that killed man ruled not suspicious

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1 min read
January 19, 2026

Carlstadt, N.J. – A two-alarm house fire that claimed the life of a 67-year-old man in Carlstadt has been determined not to be suspicious following a joint investigation by county and local officials.

The fire broke out Friday afternoon at a multi-family home on 3rd Street, prompting a large response from the Carlstadt Police Department, Carlstadt Fire Department, and several neighboring fire departments providing mutual aid. During fire suppression efforts, responders located an adult male on the second floor of the residence. He was pronounced dead at the scene and later identified as Joseph A. Poling.

The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Squad and the Bergen County Arson Task Force were requested to assist, with investigators working alongside Carlstadt police, fire officials, and the fire prevention bureau to determine the cause of the blaze.

Following the investigation, officials concluded the fire was not suspicious in nature.

Prosecutor Mark Musella acknowledged the coordinated response and assistance provided by local police, fire, and emergency medical services, as well as county agencies that participated in the investigation and fire response.

Investigators determined a fatal two-alarm fire at a Carlstadt home was not suspicious after a joint county and local review.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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