Police Charge New York Woman In Wednesday Night Avon Hotel Fire

Friday, January 30, 2026, 4:15 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

TOMS RIVER, NJ.- Early Thursday morning, following an investigation, a 34-year-old Elmsford, New York woman was formally charged with allegedly setting her room on fire late Wednesday night at a Toms River Township, New Jersey hotel.

     According to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, just shortly before 11:30 p.m, members of the Toms River Township Police Department and Fire Department responded to a fire alarm activation at the Avon Hotel.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers and Firefighters located heavy smoke coming from the structure. During a subsequent investigation, Detectives and Investigators of the Ocean County law enforcement and fire prevention bureau determined that the fire originated in a room in the southeast corner of the structure and was intentionally set.

     Further investigation quickly led to Constance Koeper, 34, of Elmsford, New York, as the suspect and the individual responsible for allegedly setting the room on fire. Accordingly, following the conclusion of the investigation, Detectives formally charged Koepler with one count of third-degree Arson.

     As of Thursday, Police did not report whether Koeper was taken into custody and is being detained pending court proceedings.

“The rules of the court require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.”