AVALON BAY FIRE DEEMED NOT SUSPICIOUS, BUT STILL NO CAUSE

The Avalon Bay fire that destroyed part of the 235-apartment complex being built at Boyden and Springfield avenues last month, and raised concerns about the developer's safety record, is not considered to be suspicious, according to Fire Chief Michael Dingelstedt.

But the cause is still unknown

The chief said he was informed by the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, which took over the investigation of the Feb. 4 fire, that they could find no proof of any suspicious cause or activity related to the six-alarm blaze.

See his statement to Maplewoodian.com below:  

I was advised by the Essex County Prosecutor's Office that, 

based on their investigation, there is nothing suspicious regarding 

the cause of the fire. The cause is undetermined due to the extent 

of the damage. The Prosecutor's Office may be able to 

provide additional information related to their investigation.

The Prosecutor's Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment Monday.

Mayor Vic Deluca also confirmed the latest update.

Avalon Bay has said it plans to rebuild the damaged portion and finish the project, although it will be delayed beyond the original timeline. The Township has also increased its safety requirements for the project and others in town, with a ban on propane heaters at the site and others.