In a dramatic turn of events, a fast-moving forest fire has engulfed thousands of acres in the Wharton State Forest in southern New Jersey. The fire, which was ignited by a fireworks device late on the Fourth of July, was detected from a nearby fire tower on Friday morning near Apple Pie Hill and the Batona Campground. As a precautionary measure, authorities swiftly ordered the evacuation of the campground.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service announced on Sunday that the fire had already consumed an estimated 4,000 acres, but efforts to contain the blaze had reached 75% completion. Multiple agencies, including the forest fire service, state park police, the state division of fire safety, and the Burlington County fire marshal's office, have collaborated in the investigation of the incident.

Crews on the ground have been conducting a backfire operation, strategically burning areas ahead of the main fire to create a barrier and prevent the flames from spreading further. In order to aid the ongoing firefighting efforts, several roads and trails in the affected areas have been closed to ensure the safety of both responders and the general public.

With the investigation underway, authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact the state park police tip line. It is crucial to determine the culpable party responsible for the ignition of the fireworks device, which has resulted in massive loss of forest vegetation and wildlife habitat.

As the fire rages on, the firefighters and personnel involved in the containment operations deserve recognition for their tireless efforts and commitment to safeguarding the affected areas. Their dedication, combined with the coordinated response from multiple agencies, has played a pivotal role in limiting the fire's destructive path.

The situation serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with the use of fireworks in areas prone to fire outbreaks, especially during dry and hot weather conditions. It highlights the need for individuals to exercise caution and adhere to local laws and regulations, particularly during holiday celebrations.

Efforts to fully extinguish the forest fire and rehabilitate the impacted areas continue. As authorities work tirelessly towards this goal, the community must remain vigilant and cooperate with all safety advisories to minimize the risk of potential hazards.

In conclusion, the fireworks-triggered forest fire in southern New Jersey has inflicted extensive damage to Wharton State Forest. While progress has been made in containing the fire, the incident serves as a compelling reminder of the consequences that can stem from the misuse of fireworks.