A Toms River man has been charged with aggravated arson in connection with a residential fire last week, according to a statement from Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.
Kevin Funchess, 59, was arrested late last Monday night after authorities responded to a reported structure fire at Winteringham Village, a housing complex located on Route 166. Firefighters arriving on scene found that the blaze had already been extinguished, but investigators quickly launched an inquiry into the cause.
A joint investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Squad, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and multiple Toms River fire and law enforcement agencies determined that the fire originated in the living room of the residence. Officials said the blaze was intentionally set using an open flame in combination with an ignitable liquid.
Funchess, who was identified during the investigation as the suspected arsonist, was taken into custody at the scene without resistance. He was transported to Community Medical Center for treatment related to shortness of breath. Once medically cleared, he was transferred to the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive for the incident or whether Funchess has retained legal representation.