By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities are investigating an early Saturday morning house fire in Neptune City, Monmouth County, that reportedly claimed one life.
According to preliminary emergency reports, firefighters responded to a working fire at 97 Bennett Avenue shortly before 2:24 a.m. on October 17.
Arriving crews encountered heavy flames coming from a two-story, wood-frame residence, prompting an aggressive firefighting operation.
During the response, fire officials reported a possible person trapped inside the burning structure.
By approximately 2:49 a.m., emergency personnel reported that most visible flames had been extinguished and confirmed that one person had died.
Firefighters continued extensive overhaul operations to check for remaining fire and hot spots.
The blaze was officially reported under control at approximately 3:11 a.m.
The identity of the deceased has not been released, and the cause of the fire remains undetermined.
Additional information is expected as authorities continue their investigation.