3 Dogs Die In Middletown Structure Fire Sunday

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Three dogs died in a house fire in Middletown's Belford section Sunday afternoon.

The call of the fire came in at 4:17 p.m. to an address on Henry Drive: As Middletown Police and Deputy Fire Chief Daniel Kelly were responding, Kelly saw a large column of smoke in the air and requested more firefighters.

No injuries to humans were reported at the fire scene. However, three dogs were pulled from the burning structure. Despite resuscitation attempts of the dogs by Middletown volunteer firefighters, EMS and police, the three dogs died.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by Middletown Township Fire Marshal Edward “Buddy” Skelly.

In total, 55 firefighters responded, from Belford Independent Fire Company, Belford Engine Fire Company, East Keansburg Fire Company, Port Monmouth Fire Company, Old Village Fire Company and Community Fire Company. First arriving units from both Belford companies began fire suppression operations, with Belford Independent placing their ladder truck into operations to cut open the roof of the building to release heat and smoke, while Belford Engine began extinguishing the blaze.

Additionally, the Middletown Township Fire Department’s Air Unit, Safety Unit and Fire Police responded and assisted on scene. The Middletown Emergency Medical Services (MEMS), along with Fairview, Middletown and Port Monmouth First Aid squads stood by to assist.