Crime & Safety

Two Forked River Residents Injured in Car Fire

Police: Vehicle engulfed in flames after attempt to siphon gas

Flames engulfed a vehicle after an attempt to siphon gas, injuring two Forked River residents.

The car fire occurred at 2360 Holly Road in the Bamber Lake section of Lacey Township at 5:50 p.m., said Michael Eden, chief of the Bamber Lakes Fire Company.

James Delucia, 24, and Janine Gersna, 24, both of Wainwright Street in Forked River, suffered burns, police officials said. Delucia’s hands and wrists were burned while Gersna suffered burns to her face.

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The 1990 Acura Integra, owned by Delucia’s father, Salvatore, 52, of Holly Road in Forked River, was parked in the driveway just feet from the side of the home when it caught fire, police officials said.

Delucia was attempting to siphon gas from the vehicle with an electric pump when the car suddenly ignited, police said. At that time, Gersna was standing near the vehicle.

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Both Delucia and Gersna were transported by the Lacey Township EMS to Community Medical Center in Toms River for treatment.

As of 10 p.m., Delucia and Gersna were still in the emergency room being evaluated, said Kristine Brown, director of Public Relations at Community Medical Center.

The vehicle was completely destroyed and the residence was damaged, as the heat from the fire melted a portion of the vinyl siding.

Neighbors gathered outside their homes as the fire and police departments responded. They said the car caught fire, and smoke filled the air.

At the scene, neighbors confirmed that Delucia was siphoning gas and that there were two burn victims.

The fire is believed to be accidental, officials said.

Three fire trucks from the Bamber Lakes and Forked River Fire Departments were at the scene and extinguished the blaze.

The Ocean County Fire Marshal was also requested.


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