NJ Forest Fire Service battling wildfire in West Deptford, New Jersey

WEST DEPTFORD, N.J. (WPVI) — The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is battling a wildfire Saturday in West Deptford Township, Gloucester County.

The fire broke out around 11 a.m. in the area Red Bank and Hessian avenues, near the former Eagle Point Refinery property.

Heavy plumes of smoke could be seen billowing across the area as crews worked to assess and contain the fire.

In a 1 p.m. update, officials said the fire is 50 acres in size and 40% contained.

West Deptford police are asking residents to avoid Red Bank Avenue between Hessian and Grove streets, as well as the surrounding area.

Fire crews are positioned near Red Bank Elementary School and along 8th Street, creating a protective barrier for nearby neighborhoods.

There was no immediate word on the size of the fire or what may have sparked it. No injuries were reported.

Stay with Action News as we continue to follow this developing story.