41° and Sunny
Tragic Blaze in Roxbury Claims Life, Leaves One Injured
Morris County Officials Investigate Devastating Residential Fire; Community Mourns Loss
ROXBURY, NJ — A fatal fire that engulfed a home on Mooney Road in Roxbury's Ledgewood section on December 19, 2023, is under active investigation by Morris County authorities. The incident, which claimed the life of a 98-year-old woman and severely injured a 71-year-old man, has left the Roxbury community in mourning.
At around 1 p.m., emergency services were alerted to the blaze. The first responders, including teams from Roxbury and neighboring towns, faced an intense firefighting effort. The elderly man, who managed to escape the inferno, was rushed to a hospital for treatment of serious injuries.
The collaborative response involved multiple fire departments, showcasing the region's unity in crisis. Despite their valiant efforts, the fire led to the partial collapse of the residence, rendering it uninhabitable. In the aftermath, firefighters discovered the deceased elderly woman, a heartbreaking outcome in this community tragedy.
The Roxbury Police Department, alongside the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes and Arson/Environmental Crimes units, is spearheading the investigation. Although the cause remains undetermined, officials currently do not view the fire as suspicious.
Roxbury Police Chief Dean Adone expressed profound gratitude towards the firefighters and EMS personnel for their unwavering bravery and support. He also requested privacy and respect for the bereaved family, acknowledging the deep impact of the loss on the community.
Prosecutor Robert Carroll echoed Chief Adone's sentiments, extending heartfelt condolences to the victims' family and friends. He lauded the courage and swift response of all emergency personnel involved, emphasizing the tragic nature of the event that has deeply affected Morris County.
The community now stands together in grief and solidarity as investigations continue, hoping for answers to this devastating incident that has struck at the heart of Roxbury.
