The most recent fire happened Sunday afternoon when an empty home became fully engulfed in flames and spread to the empty house next door, according to the Stony Creek Fire Department.

This marked the third fire in the small town of roughly 175 residents in seven days. The first two fires were in buildings located side by side, while the third occurred within sight of the first two.

Sussex County Sheriff Ernest Giles said deputies believe the teenager is responsible for all three fires.

The string of fires has put residents on edge, according to Town Council Member John Kollmann.

"When this fire started today, we knew they were being set. It wasn't an accident. Third fire in seven days, it's not an accident, absolutely," Kollmann said. "We tell the people of the town, we hope and pray

See Full Page