Investigators say blaze likely started in bedroom and may be linked to lithium-ion battery failure
Toms River, NJ — A house fire that left a woman seriously injured and displaced in Toms River has been ruled accidental, with investigators unable to rule out lithium-ion battery failure as a possible cause, officials said.
The fire broke out around 10:50 a.m. on April 13, 2026, at a residence on Tuyahov Boulevard, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.
Resident rescued as fire spreads
Authorities said a female resident was pulled from the burning home by a neighbor before emergency crews arrived.
Both the resident and the neighbor suffered injuries in the incident. The woman was transported to the Thomas Jefferson University Burn Center in Philadelphia, where she is listed in stable condition.
The neighbor was taken to Community Medical Center in Toms River, treated, and later released.
Firefighter also injured during response
During suppression efforts, a firefighter sustained minor injuries and was also transported to Community Medical Center, where he was treated and released, officials said.
Key Points
• Toms River house fire ruled accidental after investigation
• Resident rescued by neighbor, both injured in incident
• Lithium-ion battery failure not ruled out as possible cause
Investigation identifies origin of fire
A joint investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit–Arson Squad, Toms River Police Department Detective Bureau, and Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention determined the fire originated in a bedroom on the south side of the home.
Officials concluded the fire was accidental but noted that a failure involving lithium-ion batteries could not be excluded as a contributing factor.
Multi-agency response credited
Prosecutors commended the coordinated efforts of fire investigators, police, and emergency responders involved in the case.
The incident follows an earlier emergency response to the same fire, which caused significant damage and left the structure unsafe for occupancy.
Ongoing case status
The fire has been officially ruled accidental, and no criminal charges are expected as the investigation has concluded.