ATV rider arrested after gas leak prompts Atlantic City neighborhood evacuation

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A lightning strike ignited a fire in the Sea Turtle Recovery Building at Turtle Back Zoo late Wednesday night, officials said. The blaze, which started around 9:45 p.m., damaged the facility's roof and exposed several turtles to heavy smoke.

West Orange Fire and Police Departments arrived at the scene, assisted by Essex County officials and additional response units. Although Nutley Hazmat was initially requested, the team was later cancelled as the fire was brought under control.

Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. confirmed in a statement Thursday morning that the turtles housed in the building were safely transported to the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society in New York. One turtle named Pickles was particularly badly affected by the smoke but has since been moved to a safe location.

The fire was successfully extinguished and the incident is currently under investigation.

PEMBERTON BOROUGH, NJ — Authorities in the Pemberton District are asking the public for help in identifying suspects responsible for a series of green graffiti vandalism incidents. The most recent incident occurred between the evening of August 27 and the early morning hours of August 28, 2024, and targeted several homes on Elizabeth Street.

The graffiti with the recurring phrase “Berve 532” was an integral part of these acts of vandalism. Since May 2024, similar incidents have been documented not only in Pemberton Borough, but also in neighboring Pemberton Township.

Police have not yet identified any suspects and are urging residents to review any surveillance footage that may assist in the investigation. Anyone with information or video evidence is asked to contact PTL. Madrigal via email: [email protected] or call 609-894-8222. Anonymous tips are welcome.