Stafford Township Police Department Officers Rescue Fire Victim

Stafford Township, NJ police department heroes catch a man leaping from flames in a tragic fire caused by lithium-ion batteries on Yeonman Road.

by Admin

Mar 23, 2026

On the morning of February 13, 2026, the quiet of a New Jersey neighborhood was shattered by a devastating house fire. At approximately 1:20 a.m., officers from the Stafford Township Police Department rushed to a residence on Yeoman Road. Upon arrival, they were met with a terrifying scene as heavy flames consumed the home. While the situation was deeply tragic, the quick actions of four local officers prevented even further loss of life through a truly miraculous physical rescue.

Officers Catch Resident Jumping From Second Story Balcony

As the fire spread rapidly through the structure, a resident became trapped on a second-story outdoor balcony with no way down. Sgt. Woodring, SMPO Brown, Ptl. Otte, and Ptl. O’Rourke positioned themselves directly below the individual as the heat intensified. Realizing there was no time to wait for a ladder, the officers urged the man to jump. In a display of incredible teamwork and physical coordination, the officers caught the man as he leaped from the balcony, safely breaking his fall and preventing life-threatening injuries.

A Coordinated Response Amidst Heavy Fire Conditions

The rescue, captured on body-worn camera footage, highlights the split-second decisions law enforcement must make. While the officers successfully saved the man, the fire presented immense challenges for all responding units. Two individuals were eventually transported to hospitals in Philadelphia for treatment. Chief James Haldenwang praised the group, noting that their selfless actions were a powerful example of the Stafford Township Police Department's dedication. He remarked that he was awestruck by the heroics displayed during such a high-pressure emergency.

Addressing the Tragic Reality of House Fires

Despite the successful rescue of one individual, the incident sadly resulted in the passing of 92-year-old Betty Matero. Investigators later determined the fire was likely an accident caused by the failure of lithium-ion batteries stored in an outdoor container. This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of how quickly residential fires can escalate. The Stafford Township community continues to offer support to the families affected, while the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office works to finalize the details of the investigation.

Honoring Local Heroes and Staying Informed

The bravery these officers showed reflects the core mission of law enforcement: to protect and serve at any cost.

We invite you to read more stories of courage and dedication on our website. To stay updated on the latest law enforcement news and safety tips, subscribe to our newsletter and share this story of local heroism with your friends and family. Your support helps us highlight the vital work of first responders across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are lithium-ion batteries a fire hazard?

Lithium-ion batteries can become a fire hazard if they are damaged or manufactured poorly. They can overheat and cause a process called thermal runaway, leading to intense fires that are difficult to extinguish without specialized equipment.

2. How to prevent lithium battery fires?

You can prevent these fires by using only the original chargers that came with your devices. Avoid overcharging the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials or direct sunlight.

3. How to survive a house fire?

Survival depends on having a clear escape plan and working smoke alarms in your home. If you encounter smoke, stay low to the ground where the air is cleaner and exit the building as quickly as possible.

4. What are the symptoms of smoke inhalation?

Common symptoms of smoke inhalation include coughing, shortness of breath, and a raspy voice. Individuals may also experience chest pain, headaches, or soot in their nose and throat after being exposed to a fire.

5. Is fire safety for seniors different?

Fire safety for seniors is critical because mobility issues may make escaping a home more difficult. It is recommended that seniors live on the ground floor and have a phone near their bed to call for help.

6. How to charge lithium batteries safely?

Always charge your devices on a hard, flat surface rather than a bed or sofa. Never leave batteries charging unattended overnight, and unplug them once they have reached a full charge to prevent overheating.

7. What are the dangers of lithium ion batteries?

The primary dangers include the release of toxic gases and the potential for a fire to reignite after it appears to be out. These batteries store a high amount of energy in a very small space.