Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey, has filed a Notice of Tort Claim against the city, alleging that the fire department’s response to a July 27, 2026 fire caused more than $1.5 million in property damage and business losses. The casino alleges that firefighters were grossly negligent in their handling of the incident, resulting in extensive water damage when a pipe burst during firefighting operations.

The Atlantic City Fire Department responded to the resort at approximately 5:30 a.m. for a fire in a room used to collect soiled linen. Firefighters encountered heavy smoke and burning debris and successfully extinguished the fire. During suppression operations, a significant release of water flooded portions of the property, causing a large section of the lobby ceiling to collapse and damaging elevator shafts and service corridors. The casino suspended gaming operations for the day, canceled a $30,000 slot tournament, and operated its hotel at reduced capacity. Gaming operations resumed the following day. No injuries were reported.

According to the notice, the fire department’s response involved “gross negligence, carelessness, and wanton and willful damages.” The casino alleges that firefighters caused excessive damage, including the burst pipe, but the notice does not explain specifically what firefighters allegedly did wrong. The claimed losses include approximately $488,000 in architectural and engineering expenses, $49,000 for lobby ceiling repairs, and additional expenses for damaged equipment, hotel cancellations, and guest compensation. The Notice of Tort Claim is a prerequisite to filing suit against a municipality under the New Jersey Tort Claims Act. It is not itself a lawsuit.

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