Teens Set Fire To New Playground Equipment In Middlesex Co. Park, Police Say

MIDDLESEX BOROUGH, NJ — The wildfire that tore through Ocean County at the end of April wasn't the only fire allegedly started by New Jersey teenagers: Three teenagers, ages 14 and 13, deliberately started a fire in Mountain View Park in Middlesex borough last weekend, police in that town said this week.

The three teens deliberately set fire to new playground equipment that was sitting in the town's DPW parking lot, waiting to be installed.

At 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 3, Middlesex Police started receiving many 911 calls of a fire in Mountain View park, located next to the DPW lot. That's when police found the equipment consumed in flames.

Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control in under 15 minutes. However, the new playground equipment, valued at $520,952, was destroyed.

On Thursday, Police Chief Matthew Geist announced that two 14-year-old girls and a 13-year-old boy, who all live in Middlesex borough, started the fire. Police say they purposely ignited the fire. Each was charged with aggravated arson, criminal mischief, burglary, hindering and conspiracy.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible work displayed by our officers, investigators and our fire department during this investigation,” said Geist. “They demonstrated dedication, teamwork and relentless pursuit of justice. This is a prime example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement and first responders come together with a shared mission.”

“On behalf of our borough, I am thankful for the quick response of our officers and firefighters, and the thorough follow-up investigation conducted by our detectives," said Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk. "I am grateful that no one was injured as a result of the fire."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Paul Cerreto at (732) 356-1900, ext. 366 or pcerreto@middlesexpd.com