Wildfire Deemed Suspicious After Flames Threatened BurlCo Homes, Big Rusty Sculpture

HAINESPORT, NJ — A wildfire that threatened several Burlington County homes and one of South Jersey's most notable outdoor sculptures has been deemed suspicious.

The wildfire broke out Monday afternoon in Hainesport. It put 20 structures at risk, including several homes and the "Big Rusty" monument — a giant troll sculpture made of recycled trash.

By Wednesday morning, crews contained the 40-acre fire and prevented any property damage.

The nature of the fire was deemed suspicious, State Police said Thursday morning. Authorities are seeking people who witnessed the incident or the events prior.

Witnesses can contact the Detective Bureau of State Police Troop "C" Bordentown Station at 609-298-1171. Tips can be anonymous.

State Police conduct local law-enforcement services for Hainesport.

Wildfires fueled by dry conditions have broken out throughout New Jersey this fall — especially in October, when the state had virtually no rain. But the state lifted restrictions on outdoor fires Wednesday after substantial rainfall overnight.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service "asks that New Jerseyans do not become complacent and continue to be careful when using fire."

A separate wildfire in Burlington County, which burned 52 acres of Evesham last month, was caused by arson, officials said. Two teenage boys were charged.

Most wildfires are human-caused and can result from unattended campfires, negligently discarded cigarettes, the burning of debris, and arson, says the National Park Service.