Jersey Shore Fire Ruled Accidental

Likely due to an electrical short

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — The fire that devastated the boardwalk in Seaside Park and spread to Seaside Heights happened because of an electrical malfunction, authorities confirmed Tuesday.

Investigators from several agencies — including the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and New Jersey State Police — had been combing the charred remains of the boardwalk in search of clues since Thursday's fire, which damaged or destroyed 68 businesses along four blocks.