14-year-old boy arrested for allegedly starting New Jersey forest fire

Summary

A 14-year-old boy has been charged with aggravated arson for allegedly starting a wildfire on Oct. 30, 2024, in Evesham Township, New Jersey.

The fire burned 52 acres over several days but caused no structural damage. Authorities identified the teen through evidence after an extensive investigation. He was arrested on Nov. 7 and is in juvenile detention.

Police are also investigating if the teen is linked to a Nov. 7 fire in the same area that burned 375 acres. Drought conditions and high fire danger have impacted the Northeast in recent weeks.