12-Year-Old Killed in Maple Shade, NJ Apartment Fire Identified

The Maple Shade, New Jersey community is mourning the death of a boy in an apartment complex fire there over the weekend.

He has been identified as 12-year-old A.J. Marle.

The fire at Fox Meadow Apartments on Adams Drive reportedly broke out just before 10:30 p.m. Sunday night, according to 6abc.com.

Six people were hurt by the blaze, including A.J.'s mother Shannon and sister Hope, and 22 families were displaced after flames ripped through their units. A.J. lost his life.

According to 6abc reporter Beccah Hendrickson, the Marle family was instrumental in uncovering a multitude of violations at Fox Meadow. Their investigation went public resulting in a Troubleshooters report that aired on Action News.

As A.J.'s mom and little sister remain in critical condition and come to grips with A.J.'s death, the Maple Shade Business Association has established a fundraiser for the family at a local branch of Columbia Bank in the Marles family name where people are able to donate, 6abc.com reports.

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Anyone wishing to donate can visit the bank in person on E. Main Street in Maple Shade.

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Contributions can also be mailed to:

Dupell/Marles Fund

c/o Columbia Bank

253 E. Main Street, Maple Shade, NJ 08052

It's so hard to look at A.J.'s adorable face, his sandy blonde hair, and bright eyes, and think that he's gone forever. It's an unimaginable tragedy no family should have to face. He was so young and had his whole life ahead of him. Our thoughts remain with his family at this heartbreaking time.

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Gallery Credit: Heather DeLuca