Investigation Concludes in Tragic Fatal Vehicle Fire in Woodcliff Lake
file photo courtesy of Boyd Loving
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ – Local authorities have released official findings following a heartbreaking incident over the weekend. Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella announced the conclusion of a joint investigation into a fatal vehicle fire that occurred on Campbell Avenue on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
The incident, which drew a massive response from regional first responders, claimed the life of a longtime community member.
Emergency Response on Campbell Avenue
The tragedy unfolded just after noon on Saturday. At approximately 12:08 p.m., the Woodcliff Lake Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to a private residence following reports of a vehicle engulfed in flames within a driveway.
During the intense fire suppression efforts, first responders discovered 85-year-old Raymond F. Stupienski, Jr. outside the vehicle, located near the rear entrance of the home.
Mr. Stupienski was quickly treated at the scene and airlifted to HMH Hackensack University Medical Center. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he was later pronounced deceased as a result of the injuries sustained during the incident.
Investigation Deemed “Not Suspicious”
Following the fatality, the Woodcliff Lake Police Department activated the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Squad and the Bergen County Arson Task Force.
A comprehensive joint investigation was launched, involving:
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Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Detectives
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Woodcliff Lake Fire Prevention Bureau
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Hackensack Fire Department (as part of the Arson Task Force)
After a thorough examination of the scene and the vehicle, investigators officially determined that the fire was not suspicious in nature.
A Community Effort in a Time of Tragedy
Prosecutor Musella highlighted the seamless coordination between various agencies during the emergency. In addition to the primary investigating departments, several mutual aid partners provided critical support, including:
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Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps
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Hackensack Fire Department
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Regional Police and Fire mutual aid units
The Woodcliff Lake community continues to mourn the loss of Mr. Stupienski, and authorities have expressed their gratitude to the first responders who worked tirelessly under difficult circumstances.
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