Sandy-Damaged Home Sustains Additional, 'Extensive' Damage in Fire

A home undergoing repairs following Superstorm Sandy a year ago was extensively damaged again on Monday due to a fire, officials said.

The fire damage at the Venice Drive home, in the township's Chadwick Beach section, was caused by flames in the residence as well as exposure to a second blaze in a construction dumpster outside, Jim Mercready, Director of the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention, said.

"It is believed that the fire originated in a dumpster that contained construction debris which was located near the house," said Mercready.

The fire was eventually put out under the direction of Chief William Giordano of the Ocean Beach Fire Company, Mercready said.

Firefighters from Lavallette, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park and Toms River Fire Company #2 also responded.

Firefighters were able to quickly establish a water supply from a new hydrant that was recently installed to enhance fire protection in the area, according to Mercready.

Toms River has recently been moving forward with a plan to better protect its barrier island neighborhoods through new infrastructure, including additional hydrants.

The house has been posted as an unsafe structure due to the extent of fire damage suffered, said Mercready. No injuries were reported.