Arson Arrest Made After Fire Engulfs 50 Storage Units in Burleigh

Issue #265

February 21, 2025

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

‍ 🔥 Arson Arrest Made After Fire Engulfs 50 Storage Units in Burleigh

 🏖Wildwood Crest Questions Beach Project, Seeks Assurances from Officials

 ⚖Mayor Matalucci to Work Remotely While Attending Law Enforcement Academy

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Daisy Lane Boutique

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 February 21

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Arson Arrest Made After Fire Engulfs 50 Storage Units in Burleigh

 A fire destroyed 50 storage units at Burleigh Mini Storage in Middle Township on the morning of February 19. Authorities say Salvatore Gellura of Green Creek started the fire while attempting to stay warm inside his unit. Firefighters from ten companies battled the flames for hours, relying on water tankers due to the lack of hydrants. One person was hospitalized for smoke inhalation. The fire was contained by 10:30 a.m., but crews remained on-site until the evening to fully extinguish the flames. Gellura was arrested and charged with arson.

Wildwood Crest Questions Beach Project, Seeks Assurances from Officials

Wildwood Crest plans to withdraw from a major beach replenishment project that would benefit Five Mile Island, citing concerns about sand availability, beach space, and future costs. Borough officials argue that the plan would not sufficiently protect the area’s beaches and could lead to higher financial responsibilities for local taxpayers. The project, overseen by the New Jersey DEP and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is set to begin in 2026, but Wildwood Crest officials remain skeptical, saying they won’t proceed without firm commitments from state and federal agencies.

Mayor Matalucci to Work Remotely While Attending Law Enforcement Academy

 Mayor Zeth Matalucci has been excused from Township Committee meetings until June due to his promotion to an investigator position with the Sheriff’s Office and participation in a state-mandated training program. Although he will not attend meetings in person, he will remain available by phone and email. The committee adopted a resolution excusing his absences per state guidelines. Matalucci’s new role will see him handling a range of responsibilities including courtroom security, serving legal documents, criminal investigations, and assisting with internal affairs, alongside continuing some of his existing duties.

What is the name of the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center located in Cape May, which serves as the only enlisted recruit training facility for the U.S. Coast Guard?

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Answer to the February 20th Trivia Question

What Victorian-era Cape May mansion, now a museum, is one of the best-preserved examples of "Stick Style" architecture in the area?

A) The Southern Mansion
B) The Emlen Physick Estate
C) The Chalfonte Hotel
D) The Colonial House

Answer: B) The Emlen Physick Estate.

The Emlen Physick Estate is a beautifully preserved example of Victorian "Stick Style" architecture. Built in 1879, it now operates as a museum offering guided tours and insights into Cape May’s Victorian past.

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