The Township of Hamilton Police Department responded to 4109 West Jersey Avenue for a report of a structure fire on Monday morning. Resident Thomas Sear told officers he was awakened by the sound of his smoke alarm. Upon seeing smoke in the living room and hearing a crackling sound in the wall near a wood burning stove, Sear evacuated family members and pets before calling 911. Police observed heavy smoke and flames coming from the roof of the residence. Members of the Mays Landing, Cologne, and Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Departments responded and extinguished the fire. Assistance was provided by the Township of Hamilton Rescue Squad. The dwelling suffered damage to the top floor and attic area. The fire remains under investigation but appears to have been caused by a malfunction in the chimney or wood burning stove. The Sear family was displaced and will be staying with family members. No injuries were reported.
