At approximately 1245 am, February 15, 2017, the Howell Police Department Communications Center received a phone call that there were flames visible on the property behind Taylor Fence. The Howell Police Department along with several Howell Township Fire companies (Adelphia, Ramtown, Southard, Squankum and Freewood Acres) with the assistance of NWS Earle and Colts Neck Fire Department responded to the scene. Howell Police EMS, Farmingdale-Howell First-Aid Squad and Howell First-Aid and Rescue Squad were also on scene.
The fire was obvious upon arrival as it was consuming a large section of wood fencing material. The material burning was stacked approximately thirty feet wide by thirty feet long and twenty feet high. The fire companies gained access to the area and began battling the fire, a task that took several hours to accomplish. To assist with fire suppression, large machinery was brought in to separate the material.
The matter is under investigation by the Howell Township Police Department Investigations Division, Howell Township Fire Bureau and Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office. It is deemed suspicious at this time. One firefighter sustained a knee injury and was transported to the hospital. The office/structure area of the business was not damaged.

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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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