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November 4, 2024

Probe begins into Castaway Cove fire

OCEAN CITY – Personnel from multiple agencies will be in Ocean City this week as the investigation into the Jan. 30 fire at Playland’s Castaway Cove continues, according to Doug Bergen, public information officer for Ocean City.

On Wednesday afternoon, he said agencies involved in the investigation include the Ocean City Fire department Investigation Unit, Cape May County Fire Marshal’s Office, Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office and New Jersey State Fire Marshal’s Office. Because of the size of the estimated loss, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) National Response Team has also been activated. 

The mast on the pirate ship that advertised Playland’s Castaway Cove burns Saturday morning during a blaze that destroyed the office and arcade part of the park. (Photo by Michael DiFebbo Photography

At this time, the investigation is still in the preliminary stages as investigators work to determine the origin and cause of the fire, Bergen wrote.

“There is no need for public alarm. Please do not enter the premises of Castaway Cove during the investigation,” he added. 

Anyone who has additional information relating to this investigation is urged to contact the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office at (609) 465-1135, the Ocean City Police Department at (609) 399-9111, or report it anonymously through the Cape May County Sheriff’s Tip Line at cmcsheriff.net and click on anonymous tip, or through the Cape May County Crime Stoppers, 609-889-3597.

An Ocean City firefighter looks over boardwalk storefronts to assess the blaze at Playland’s Castaway Cove Saturday morning. (Photo by Michael DiFebbo Photography)

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