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State police have launched an investigation into the Big Rusty Wildfire, troopers said in a Facebook post on Thursday, Nov. 21. The blaze that ignited near Bancroft Lane and Cove Court on Monday, Nov. 18 scorched 40 acres and threatened 20 homes.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service said no evacuations were needed and the wildfire was fully contained by 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Crews have remained on-site to monitor the area for flare-ups and reinforce containment lines.
Photos shared by the NJFFS captured the intensity of the flames and the effort by firefighters to protect nearby homes. The cause of the fire remained under investigation but it has been deemed suspicious.
The fire sparked near "Big Rusty," a sculpture made by Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo in June 2023. The township commissioned him to build the 100-square-meter troll from a rusty metal roof, a plywood attic, electrical equipment, a concrete wall, and wood.
This wildfire was part of a troubling pattern across New Jersey in November, with drought conditions and strong winds drastically increasing fire risks. A 35-acre wildfire near Lakewood Country Club was deemed 100 percent contained after also burning during the same days as the Big Rusty Wildfire.
Thursday's rainfall, the first significant precipitation in more than a month, is expected to aid efforts by reducing lingering smoke and fully extinguishing embers. NJFFS said the rain had allowed statewide fire restrictions to be lifted but New Jerseyans were asked to continue being careful as the ongoing severe drought continued.
Anyone with information about the Big Rusty Wildfire should call New Jersey State Police Troop "C" at 609-298-1171.
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