JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A fire caused significant damage to the historic Ringling Manor early Friday morning, according to a press release issued by Captain Robert Bush of the Jefferson Township Police Department.
At approximately 7:12 a.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, Jefferson Township Police responded to 2 Manor Drive in Oak Ridge, also known as the Ringling Manor, after receiving a report of heavy smoke and a possible structure fire. Officers arriving on scene observed smoke coming from the top of the building. No occupants were inside at the time.
Fire crews from multiple departments responded quickly, extinguished the flames, and ventilated the structure. The building sustained heavy fire and smoke damage.
Built in 1913 by Alfred T. Ringling of the Ringling Brothers Circus, the manor is a well-known historic landmark in the community.
The Jefferson Township Police Department extended its appreciation to the many agencies that assisted, including:
- Jefferson Twp. Fire Co. #1 and #2
- Milton First Aid Squad
- Jefferson Twp. Office of Emergency Management
- Hardyston Twp. Fire Dept.
- Netcong Fire Dept.
- Picatinny Arsenal Fire Dept.
- Boonton Fire Dept.
- West Milford Fire Dept.
- Mt. Arlington Fire Dept.
- Morris County Fire Inspector
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Sgt. Michael Ondish of the Jefferson Township Police Department at 973-208-6153 or [email protected].
Citizens with information about crimes or suspicious activity may call Morris County Crime Stoppers at (973) COP-CALL. Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.
