On April 16th at 7:04 am police and fire units responded to 106 Sea Gull Lane in Ortley Beach for a structure fire. Upon the arrival of the first units the home was observed to be fully engulfed in flames. According to Police Spokesmen Ralph Stocco, Patrol Officer’s Michael Brown and Jesse Robertazzi were concerned that there may be people still asleep inside of the home. They forced entry and began a search of the first floor until they were forced to flee due to the heavy smoke. It was ultimately determined that both houses were vacant.
Stocco adds that Fire units from Ocean Beach, Toms River #1, Toms River #2, East Dover, Silverton, Lavallette, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, and Point Beach responded and brought the fire under control at 8:14 am. Weather conditions were severe with wind, rain, fog, and near zero visibility. Extensive damage was done to the home as well as the adjacent property at 118 Sea Gull Lane.
The investigation is being conducted by Toms River Detective Roger Hull along with Patrol Officer Ryan Parente. Additionally, the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention, Ocean County Prosecutors office, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department CIU are on the scene.
