Crime & Safety

Fatal Fire in Mendham Ruled Accidental

Morris County Medical Examiner says death was caused by thermal injuries and smoke inhalation.

 

The results of the investigation into the cause of death for Mendham Township resident John Beck came almost as swiftly as the at 59 Woodland Road. Morris County Medical Examiner Doctor Ronald Suarez stated the cause of death as thermal injuries and smoke inhalation, and the joint investigative team ruled the fire accidental.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section, Morris County Medical Examiners Office and the Mendham Township Police Department were all involved in the investigation which determined the fire started in the kitchen early this morning. 

Find out what's happening in Mendham-Chesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Investigators said they were able to surmize the point of origin for the blaze as a pot left unattended on the stove top. The fire quickly spread from the stove top to other food items in the kitchen and to the kitchen cabinets.

This is the in Mendham Township, which is unusual despite the high number of brush fires this season, authorities said.

Find out what's happening in Mendham-Chesterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Investigators said that although the fire is ruled accidental and the case is closed, the area around the home is unsafe and should be avoided. has left a cruiser posted there.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.