Extension cords caused fire
By:Alec Moore
A fire destroyed a South Main Street first-floor apartment Monday, claiming the life of 73-year-old Stephen C. Balint, a former borough tax collector who retired in 1994.
Manville police and fire companies Nos.1, 2 and 3 were alerted to the blaze at 2:42 p.m. Bridgewater’s Finderne Fire Company also responded to assist in extinguishing the blaze. Investigators from the Somerset County prosecutor’s office also responded and an ambulance from the Somerset Medical Center was dispatched.
Wednesday, Manville Fire Official Barry Van Horne said investigation at the fire scene revealed the fire was caused by overloaded electrical outlets.
Mayor Angelo Corradino, who worked closely with Mr. Balint when he served as tax collector, recalled Mr. Balint’s kind-hearted nature and constant willingness to help others in need.
"He was always there to help, always taking someone into his office, reassuring them about their tax bill," said Mayor Corradino. "He was a great gentleman."
The mayor praised the borough’s firefighters and police for their efforts in extinguishing the blaze, which was fought under less than ideal conditions.
"The fire department did a fantastic job controlling the fire and keeping it contained," said the mayor. "With the wind blowing the way it was, that whole block could have gone up."
The mayor also commended the courage of Manville Police Officer Mike Guilbert, the first rescuer to arrive on the scene, for entering the burning building in an attempt to rescue Mr. Balint.
"He risked his life for someone else, he showed phenomenal courage and he should be commended."
Intense heat and thick smoke prevented Officer Guilbert from entering too far into the apartment.
Funeral services for Mr. Balint were held May 12 at Fucillo and Warren Funeral Home at 205 S. Main St. Mr. Balint was be laid to rest in a family plot at Sacred Heart cemetery in Hillsborough.
Mr. Balint is survived by his sister, Mary Krzesiewski of Toms River; four nieces, a nephew and a Great-nephew.

