Lake Fire Extinguished With Help Of Morris County Sheriff's Office

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — A fire on Halsey Island in Lake Hopatcong required the assistance of the Morris County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit on the afternoon of May 9.

A total of 50 to 60 firefighters and emergency medical personnel were taken to the island, where the fire was quickly brought under control and extinguished.

The fire caused no injuries and only minor property damage, according to police.

According to reports, the fire started in a shed and spread to nearby brush. Residents of Halsey Island were not required to evacuate; instead, they were able to remain safely on the island while Jefferson Twp. Firefighters extinguished the fire.

Sgt. Jason Parrillo of the Morris County Sheriff's Office used the Morris County Sheriff's Office vessel, Marine 1, in a support role to assist the Jefferson Fire Department by taking fire and EMS personnel to Halsey Island to fight the active fire and provide aid.

“The MCSO Marine Unit was instrumental in assisting all of our emergency services units on the scene. I appreciate their quick response,” said Chief Paul Castimore, Jefferson Twp. Police.

Lt. Chris List and Sgt. Kyle Koster established a Morris County Sheriff's Office base of operations on the Windlass Restaurant property to assist Marine 1 with logistical needs as well as communication with Fire Incident Command.

“The assist was seamless and professional in coordination as well as effort,” List said.

The cause of the fire was still under investigation.

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