Embattled Morris Co. Mayor’s Business Burns

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — A local business owned by Dover Mayor James Dodd was engulfed in a 3-alarm fire this weekend.

On Sunday night, around 7:30 p.m., fire crews responded to JD Automotive & Truck Inc. on Richards Avenue on reports of a commercial structure fire.

The three-alarm fire took around four hours to extinguish, and no injuries were reported.

Portions of U.S. 46 shut down throughout the night closed to allow access for responders, according Dover Police. The roadway has since reopened.

The mayor is has been under major heat himself over the last few weeks, following multiple clashes and lawsuits with Dover Police, Morris County police chiefs, and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office.

See Related:

• Prosecutor Sues Morris Co. Town Amid Law Enforcement Feud
• Morris Co. Police Chiefs Slam Mayor Amid Long-Standing Feud

Dover Business Administrator Edward Ramirez, who is mentioned in the lawsuits as well, says that an investigation into the cause of the blaze will "ensure that no stone is left unturned."

"This tragedy affects not only the Mayor and his family but also the many employees whose livelihoods are connected to this business. Our prayers are with them all during this difficult time," Ramirez said in a post. "We are also praying for clarity and truth as investigators work to determine the real cause of the fire. We will fully cooperate with authorities to ensure that no stone is left unturned...Rebuilding is never easy, but together we can help the Mayor and his family rise again."

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is involved in the ongoing investigation to the cause of the fire.

JD Automotive & Truck Inc. is listed as “temporarily closed” online, and details on the full extent of the damage caused by the fire were not immediately available.