A woman was found dead following an apartment fire in Toms River late Friday night, October 23, which investigators have determined was accidentally caused by careless smoking.

According to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, Toms River Police and Fire Departments responded to the Highland Plaza Apartments on Highland Parkway at approximately 11:20 p.m. after receiving reports of a structure fire.

Upon arrival, first responders observed smoke coming from a second-floor apartment. During a search of the residence, firefighters discovered a deceased woman on the living room floor.

Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity, pending positive identification and notification of her family.

An investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Toms River Police Department, and Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention determined that the fire originated on a couch along the living room’s east wall.

Officials concluded that the fire was accidental and resulted from careless smoking.