Lakewood News Network — A two-alarm structure fire at 6th Street and Lexington Avenue last night at around 11:25 has left 10 families without a place to sleep. The Fire is being investigated as a possible arson.
The New Jersey Red Cross division is currently assisting the displaced families.
Officials say the fire began on the outer part of the three-story building.
Lakewood Inspections Department responded to the scene to ensure that water and electricity to the building have been cut off and the structure was tagged as unsafe.
The fire was originally considered out in only 5 minutes, however, during the investigation by the fire marshall's, active fire was found deep inside the structure and firefighters needed to cut through the roof in order to reach the fire.
So far, no security cameras have been reported in the area. However, very shortly after arrival, a Lakewood Police officer noticed a gas can in the area which he said may have been set intentionally.
Additionally, eyewitnesses informed officers that immediately after the fire started, a male with a thick body was seen running east on 6th Street wearing dark pants, a dark T-shirt, boots, and a dark hat.
An additional tip came from a security guard from New Jersey Transit who reported that there was a male running towards
Ocean Avenue wearing no shirt and shorts and was clearly in a hurry.
Further investigation, which was requested by LPD officer Steven Kelusak under the suspicion of arson, is currently underway by the Ocean County Sheriffs Office Crime Scene Investigations, and the Ocean County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit.
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