NJ Man Accused of Sparking Massive Wildfire Denies Responsibility, Blames Others

Joseph Kling, 19, is facing arson charges in connection with the devastating Jones Road wildfire in America that ripped through the central New Jersey Pine Barrens in April. However, Kling is vehemently denying any sole responsibility for the blaze.

Authorities allege Kling ignited a bonfire using wooden pallets, failing to properly extinguish it before leaving the area. The resulting wildfire consumed over 15,000 acres, becoming the second-largest in New Jersey in two decades. The fire destroyed structures and vehicles before being fully contained in mid-May.

Following a court appearance, Kling claimed that while he was present when the fire started, numerous others were also at the scene and should have ensured the fire was put out. He stated he even attempted to extinguish the flames himself by kicking dirt on them before leaving to assist a friend injured in a dirt bike accident.

Kling alleges police are ignoring his claims about the other individuals present. He is currently under house arrest with electronic monitoring. He also faces separate charges of simple assault and endangering an injured person related to an unrelated incident in Lacey.

A second teenager, the 17-year-old dirt bike rider, has also been charged with aggravated arson and hindering apprehension. Prosecutors claim both teens initially misled police, falsely blaming Mexican individuals for starting the fire. Phone records apparently reveal communications between the two contradicting this initial story.

Prosecutors say other witnesses present at the scene dispute Kling's account. Two women, identified as the girlfriends of the two defendants, reportedly told police that only the four of them were present when Kling allegedly ignited the pallets with gasoline. One of the women allegedly admitted in a social media message, "We caused the fire."

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer stated that the investigation is ongoing and declined further comment on specific evidence.

Kling's attorney, Joseph Compitello, maintains his client's innocence and believes further investigation will reveal others should also be held responsible. He claims Kling's consistent statements have been disregarded.

Prosecutors have not offered Kling a plea deal, citing the active investigation and the possibility of additional victims coming forward.