Fire Rescue News - Stafford Township firefighter admits starting nine forest fires in Ocean and Burlington counties

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A volunteer firefighter in southern New Jersey has pleaded guilty to aggravated arson.

Ryan Dellane admitted intentionally setting nine blazes in Ocean and Burlington counties between March and August of last year, including one that consumed 540 acres in Barnegat.

The forest fire forced the evacuation of about 75 people and two firefighters were injured.

The Asbury Park Press reports prosecutors will seek a 20-year sentence when the 19-year-old former member of the Stafford Volunteer Fire Company is sentenced on June 2.