NJ Elementary School Catches Fire Again 1 Month After Last Fire

GALLOWAY, NJ — For the second time in less than a month, Arthur Rann Elementary School has been damaged in a fire.

The first fire was on Jan. 26, also during a snowstorm. The latest happened in the early hours of Monday, during a blizzard.

"We understand this information is concerning, and certainly wasn't what any of us anticipated sharing today, but we want to ensure you have the most current facts as quickly as possible," Superintendent Stephen P. Santilli said in an update shared with families Monday.

The fire was reported at about 12:15 a.m., and when Galloway firefighters arrived, they found an active fire, Santilli said. Two additional fires begun and firefighters quickly extinguished them.

"While there may already be speculations circulating regarding what caused the fires I wanted to be clear that the official cause of the fires remains under investigation, but again does not appear suspicious in nature," Santilli said.

Similar to the previous incident, this fire appeared to have started in newly-installed HVAC units, he said.

"After the first fire the district adhered to the advice of a variety of community resources and vendors who confirmed that while the initial HVAC units fire was still under investigation, there was no reason to believe any of the other HVAC that were recently installed were a concern, Santilli said. "As we know now that is certainly not the case and of significant concern to the district. At the current time all power has been cut to all of the new HVAC units that were installed this summer."

Fire damage and water damage were reported. Santilli said he assumes that any progress made in repairs have been undone, adding that the district nor the fire restoration company repairing the school are unable to enter the building until the fire inspector gives the OK. Due to the ongoing blizzard, the timeline for that is unknown.

"We are again thankful that our staff and students are safe. Please know that any and all decisions will always be made with their safety at the forefront," Santilli said. "At the current time the district will keep its current plan in place for our Arthur Rann staff and students, and reminders for those plans will be sent to all parents/guardians once the severe inclement weather has subsided."