Clayton Fire Company

08/20/2026

RIP Chief

It is with heavy hearts that Star Cross Fire Department announces the passing of Joseph Petsch, a lifelong and dedicated member of our department.

Joe joined the Star Cross Fire Department in June of 1968 and devoted decades of service to our department and community. Throughout the years, Joe helped our department by holding numerous positions, including serving as our Chief for 30 years.

Joe’s dedication to helping others did not stop with our department. He also served as President of our County Chiefs Association for several years, along with serving as the Mayor of our great community in Franklin Township.

His dedication, leadership, knowledge, and friendship touched countless members of our department deeply. Joe’s legacy will live on among us, as well as in the lives of those he impacted throughout his lifetime of service to others.

We ask that you keep Joe’s family, friends, and his Star Cross Fire Department family in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

May you rest easy, Chief. Thank you for a lifetime of service with us.

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Funeral service will be held on

Tuesday 8/25/2026 from 6:00pm- 09:00pm
Wednesday 8/26/2026 from 09:30-10:30am
Followed by church and burial services.

Bell-Hennessy Funeral Home Inc., 420 S Main St, Williamstown, NJ 08094

08/05/2026

Clayton Emergency Service are proud to announce our combined fire prevention and national night out come join us for all your favorite things all in one night. We look forward to seeing everyone there.

08/01/2026

Yesterday afternoon squad 41 operated as the second due engine for a dwelling fire in the Star Cross section of Franklin Twp.

07/31/2026

After many months out of service our siren has returned completely refurbished after a motor failure last fall. We look forward to putting it back in service soon. Thank you to mayor and council for making this happen.

07/21/2026

The Clayton Fire Co. would like to thank everyone for their patience. We are very happy to announce that our hall is now open and ready to accommodate your rental needs. Contact us at [email protected] for information or booking. Schedule today before it books up.

Again thank you for your patience

07/17/2026

Shortly after clearing a 3 car motor vehicle crash task force 41 was dispatched for a garage fire. Engine 41 arrived with smoke coming come a detached garage. Engine 41s crew quickly stretched an 1 3/4 hose line to extinguish the fire

07/14/2026

Our hearts are with the family, friends, and brothers and sisters of the Malaga Fire department as we mourn the heartbreaking loss of a young firefighter, Robert “Bobby” Reider. We ask everyone to keep all those affected in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
Please be advised that there will be a significant presence of first responders throughout town as we come together to honor his life and service this Friday. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we pay tribute to one of our own.

07/10/2026

Thinking of Malaga Fire Co.

07/03/2026

Just after midnight, Taskforce 41 was dispatched to Clevenger Drive for a dwelling fire. The fire was held to an exterior fire with no damage to the inside of the house.

06/26/2026

Help us congratulate firefighters Sarah Richartz, Mark Manera and Jon Rehm on graduating the Salem County Fire Academy.