Massive NJ brush fire started by burning debris in yard, cops say

🔥 A brush fire spread rapidly and destroyed a home

🔥 Three firefighters were injured trying to douse the blaze

🔥 Authorities say a resident burning debris caused the fire

WEST MILFORD — A North Jersey fire that injured three firefighters, damaged three buildings and displaced two people was started by a resident illegally burning debris, according to authorities.

Fire crews in West Milford responded to a home at 469 Lakeside Road for a report of a brush fire at 12:10 p.m. on Saturday, the local fire marshal said. The area sits near the New York border along Greenwood Lake. Other firefighters across the state border saw a pillar of smoke billowing from the area and chose to respond as well.

As they arrived at the scene, the fire crews found a brush fire rapidly spreading through the mountainside. The flames spread to three homes and responders from several surrounding townships went to work trying to quell the flames.

One home located at 48 Kushaqua Trail was almost entirely consumed. The roof partially collapsed, leaving behind charred remains of the structure it once was.

Fortunately, firefighters were able to save the other two homes. There was damage to the outside of the houses but they remained standing.

Nearly the entire day passed before the situation was brought under control. The last fire crews weren't able to leave until around 7:30 p.m., more than seven hours after the first flames were spotted.

During that time, three firefighters were injured. Two were taken to Chilton Medical Center and later released while the third was treated at the scene.

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According to the fire marshal's office, the fire was started by a resident illegally burning debris in their backyard.

Fire Marshal Michael Moscatello told New Jersey 101.5 that two people have been displaced and no one has been charged, yet.

"A decision on charges will be made this week and at that time identity will be made public," Moscatello said.