Tragic Plumsted Township Fire Declared an Accidental Fatality
Mobile Home Fire in Plumsted Township Leaves One Dead and One Injured
PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN) – On November 1, 2023, a devastating mobile home fire occurred on Lakewood Road in Plumsted Township, resulting in the tragic death of one individual and injuries to another. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, along with various other agencies, has conducted a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
Upon arrival at the scene, emergency service personnel were met with heavy smoke billowing from the mobile home. They discovered Paul Hakos, the homeowner and a 79-year-old male, outside the residence. He was immediately transported to CentraState Medical Center in Freehold for medical treatment, where he is currently in stable condition. However, Catherine Hakos, a 63-year-old female, was found lifeless in the back bedroom of the residence and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation, led by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office-Arson Squad, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, and other relevant agencies, has revealed that the fire originated beneath the structure. Although the exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, a failure of energized electrical equipment has not been ruled out. However, investigators have concluded that the fire was accidental in nature.
Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer commends the collaborative efforts of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office-Arson Squad, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, Plumsted Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Plumsted Township Fire Marshal’s Office, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit for their invaluable assistance in this comprehensive investigation.
The devastating mobile home fire serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of fire safety precautions and the potential dangers associated with electrical equipment. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and ensure the proper maintenance and inspection of their electrical systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the Hakos family during this difficult time.
