Police Investigation Into Franklin Apartment Fire Continues

FRANKLIN, NJ — Authorities are continuing to investigate a fire that left nine families homeless at an apartment complex in Franklin Township on April 25.

"The fire investigation is still active," said Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Spokeswoman Jeanne Trillhaase said.

The fire was reported at on April 25 at 6:52 a.m. at a second floor apartment on Norwich Place. When authorities arrived heavy black smoke and flames could be seen coming from the multi-family dwelling, Franklin Police Lt. Philip Rizzo said.

See Related: 9 Families Displaced From Apartment Fire In Franklin: Update

No residents were reportedly injured, however residents from nine units were displaced as a result of fire, smoke and water damage. All the displaced residents are staying with family or friends in the area.

Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Fire Investigation Unit, Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit and the Franklin Township Police Department have an on-going, joint investigation into the cause and origin of the fire.

Somerset County Prosecutor Michael H. Robertson, Chief of County Detectives John W. Fodor, and Franklin Township Chief of Police Richard A. Grammar request anyone with information to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100, or the Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-5533 or via the STOPit app. The STOPit app allows citizens to provide anonymous reports including videos and photos. STOPit can be downloaded to your smart phone for free at the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, access code: SOMERSETNJ.

Information can also be provided through the Somerset County Crime Stoppers' Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or at www.scpo.net and click on either "Crime Stoppers" or "TIPS HOTLINE". All anonymous Crime Stopper tips will be kept confidential.

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