A structure fire that tore through a multifamily building under construction in Jackson Township last night has been ruled accidental.

As first reported by TLS, the blaze was reported at approximately 7:05 p.m. Police and fire crews arriving found heavy fire engulfing the end unit of the unfinished structure, which did not yet have utilities connected.

A thorough investigation was conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit–Arson Squad, the Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, the Jackson Township Fire Bureau, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit.

Investigators determined that the fire originated in the center hallway of the first floor. Officials concluded that the blaze was likely caused by a propane convection heater that had been placed too close to combustible materials.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer acknowledged the cooperative efforts of all agencies involved in the investigation.