SHAMONG TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Firefighters have contained 40% of the massive Mines Spung Wildfire that has burned approximately 4,200 acres in Wharton State Forest, officials confirmed Saturday. The blaze, first spotted by a private pilot on June 13, continues to challenge crews despite progress in containing its spread.
Firefighting Efforts Intensify
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service deployed fire engines, helicopters, bulldozers, and ground teams to combat the flames, which have threatened at least five structures. “The fire has got some serious burning going on right now, and we’re having a hard time controlling it,” said Chief Bill Donnelly during a press conference.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the wildfire, which has forced evacuations and closures across the region.
Evacuations and Closures
The blaze prompted emergency evacuations, including:
- Costello Preparatory Academy, a state-run facility for men recovering from substance abuse.
- Lower Forge campground in Washington Township.
- Nearby roads in Shamong, along with a section of the Batona Trail, a popular hiking route in South Jersey.
Officials plan to provide another update Saturday afternoon as crews work to strengthen containment lines.
Historic Monument at Risk
The wildfire burned near the Carranza Memorial in Tabernacle, a 12-foot stone monument honoring Emilio Carranza Rodriguez, a celebrated Mexican aviator who died in a 1928 plane crash in the Pinelands. Known as the “Mexican Lindbergh,” Carranza had made an emergency landing in New Jersey months earlier during a goodwill flight from Mexico City to Washington, D.C. He later perished in a thunderstorm while returning to Mexico.
The memorial marks the crash site, and while its condition remains unclear, the proximity of the flames has raised concerns among local historians.
Ongoing Challenges
With dry conditions and unpredictable winds, firefighters face an uphill battle to fully contain the wildfire. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service continues to monitor hotspots and reinforce containment efforts.
As of Saturday, no injuries have been reported, but officials urge residents to stay clear of the area.