July 4th fireworks spark New Jersey wildfire that burned thousands of acres

TABERNACLE, NJ — Authorities say fireworks sparked a fast-moving wildfire that has consumed thousands of acres in southern New Jersey.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Department said Sunday that a “fireworks display” set off in Wharton State Forest late on July 4 sparked the blaze. The fire was spotted from a lookout tower shortly after 9 a.m. Friday near Apple Pie Hill and the Batona Campground, which was evacuated as a precaution.

Authorities asked anyone with information about the fire to call the State Park Police hotline. The Forest Fire Department conducted the investigation in cooperation with the State Park Police, the State Division of Fire Safety and the Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office, authorities said.

Authorities said Sunday the fire had burned about 4,000 acres (1,600 hectares) but was apparently 75 percent contained. Authorities had previously said crews were using a firefighting operation, burning areas ahead of the main fire to try to stop the flames from spreading. Several roads and trails were closed.