BEACHWOOD, NJ - At approximately 2:30 A.M. on May 16th, the Beachwood Fire Department responded to the report of a structure fire on the 200 block of Beachwood Blvd. The Pine Beach Fire Department was dispatched automatic aid on the initial alarm.

Upon arrival, command found a well involved structure fire in a one-story bungalow style residence. The sole occupant had self-evacuated and was being treated by Beachwood Police personnel for smoke inhalation. A "working fire" alarm was requested, which brought the Manitou Park and Pinewald Fire Departments to the scene to assist. The Bayville Fire Department provided coverage for the area and set up a landing zone at the Birch and Surf Park in the event the victim resident required a medical helicopter for transport for emergency care.

The fire was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes. A pet cat perished in the fire and one Beachwood firefighter suffered a minor injury.

Beachwood EMS provided assistance at the scene and transported the resident to Community Medical Center.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Ocean County Fire Marshal's Office and Beachwood Police Detective Bureau.