Asbury Park Residential Fire Injures Three, One Severely Burned – Firefighters Respond Quickly to Blaze at 513 Prospect Avenue, Victims Transported to Local Hospitals

Asbury Park, NJ – March 14, 2025 – A devastating residential fire broke out early this morning at a two-story home located at 513 Prospect Avenue in Asbury Park, New Jersey. The blaze, which quickly engulfed much of the residence, left three individuals injured, one critically so with severe burn injuries. The fire, which prompted a large-scale emergency response, is currently under investigation by local authorities, and officials are urging the public to avoid the area while emergency crews continue their response.

Emergency Crews Respond to Fire Reports

At approximately 9:00 AM, emergency dispatchers received multiple calls reporting a significant structure fire at the address, with some reports suggesting that individuals might still be inside the home. Asbury Park’s Fire Department, along with neighboring agencies from across Monmouth County, was immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters were met with an alarming sight: heavy flames were already consuming both floors of the two-story residence, with smoke billowing into the sky and visible damage to the exterior.

The fire had spread rapidly, and it was clear that the structure was severely compromised. Firefighters faced extreme conditions as they attempted to control the fire and search for any trapped occupants inside. With thick smoke and intense heat affecting visibility and making the building unstable, swift and coordinated efforts were necessary to rescue anyone who might have been trapped.

The Rescue Operation

Firefighters focused on entering the building and evacuating any residents as quickly as possible. Upon gaining entry to the house, responders discovered three individuals who had become trapped on the upper floors of the residence. The heat and flames had made it difficult to reach them, but the quick action of the emergency crews helped to minimize the damage and prevent further harm.

The three victims, whose names have not yet been fully disclosed, were evacuated from the building. One of the victims, whose identity is still being withheld pending family notification, sustained severe burn injuries. This individual, whose condition remains critical, was immediately transported by paramedics to a nearby trauma center for urgent care. Firefighters and emergency medical personnel performed immediate first aid and lifesaving measures at the scene to stabilize the victim before the transfer to the hospital.

The other two victims were also rescued, though their injuries appear to be less severe. The condition of these two individuals has not yet been fully released by authorities, though reports suggest that they are in stable condition. They were also transported to local hospitals for further treatment and evaluation.

The Aftermath of the Blaze

After the rescue operation, firefighters turned their attention to containing the fire and preventing it from spreading further. The flames, which had already engulfed the second floor and part of the roof, were difficult to control due to high winds and the structure’s compromised integrity. However, after several hours of coordinated efforts, emergency crews managed to bring the fire under control. Firefighters remained on the scene throughout the day to conduct a thorough search of the building and ensure that no further dangers remained.

While the fire has been contained, the residence at 513 Prospect Avenue has been severely damaged. The property appears to be a total loss, with extensive damage to both floors of the house. Officials from the Asbury Park Fire Department stated that the home will be uninhabitable for the foreseeable future, and additional fire units will remain in the area to monitor any potential flare-ups.

Ongoing Investigation and Cause of Fire

As of now, the cause of the fire remains undetermined, and fire officials have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Local authorities, including the Asbury Park Fire Department and Monmouth County investigators, are working together to analyze the scene and piece together what may have led to the blaze.

The investigation will likely focus on several key factors, including the potential for electrical issues, the condition of the home’s heating system, and whether there were any indications of foul play or accidental causes. The fire was reported to have started on the upper floors of the home, but investigators are still trying to determine the exact origin of the flames.

As part of the investigation, forensic teams will examine the structural integrity of the house to ensure that there were no hidden hazards that may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Experts will also be reviewing any available surveillance footage or witness statements that could help provide additional context about the fire’s start and progression.

Public Safety and Area Closure

As of today, authorities are advising local residents to avoid the vicinity of 513 Prospect Avenue due to ongoing emergency operations and the presence of fire investigators. Streets surrounding the fire scene have been closed, and authorities are asking drivers and pedestrians to respect roadblocks and detours in order to allow emergency responders to continue their work uninterrupted.

Asbury Park Police, along with local fire crews, have established a secure perimeter around the fire scene and are maintaining a visible presence to keep the public at a safe distance. At present, the fire investigation and debris cleanup are expected to continue for several more hours, potentially well into the evening.

In the aftermath of the fire, the Asbury Park community has rallied to support those affected by the disaster. Neighbors and local residents have expressed concern for the victims, and community leaders are exploring ways to provide aid and assistance in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Community Impact and Response

The tragic fire at 513 Prospect Avenue has left many in the Asbury Park community shaken, as this is the second major fire in the area in recent months. Local residents are concerned about fire safety in older homes and are calling for increased efforts to ensure that residents are properly educated on fire prevention techniques and the importance of regular maintenance for older buildings.

In response to the fire, Asbury Park’s city officials have promised to review safety protocols and work with local fire departments to enhance fire response times and ensure that resources are adequately allocated to handle emergencies of this scale. The fire has also sparked conversations about the importance of public awareness campaigns aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

Moreover, local charities and organizations have already begun coordinating efforts to provide support for those affected by the fire. Residents are being encouraged to donate clothing, food, and other essentials to those displaced by the fire. Local shelters are also on standby to provide temporary housing for anyone who may need it, and the community has shown an outpouring of support for the victims and their families.

Conclusion and Further Updates

As the investigation continues and more details emerge, authorities have promised to provide updates on the condition of the victims and the status of the fire investigation. Asbury Park residents and the broader Monmouth County community await further information on the cause of the fire and the health of the injured victims.

The Asbury Park Fire Department, along with the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and local law enforcement agencies, will continue to work tirelessly to determine the circumstances behind the fire and ensure that justice is served if any negligence or foul play is found to be involved. Residents are urged to stay informed by following official updates from the Asbury Park Fire Department and local news outlets for new information.

For now, all eyes are on the recovery of the victims, the investigation into the cause of the fire, and the continued support for the Asbury Park community as it navigates the aftermath of this devastating incident.