WCBC

January 13th, 2016 by WCBC Radio

Deputy State Fire Marshals have charged a fifteen year-old male with arson charges stemming from a fire that occurred last night at 8:46 PM located at 14002 Pennsylvania Avenue in Hagerstown.
Investigators were requested by firefighters after extinguishing a bedroom fire inside the two-story, single family dwelling. Deputy State Fire Marshals determined the fire was an intentional act and quickly identified the owners’ son as the person responsible. The juvenile later confessed to the investigators he lit denatured (rubbing) alcohol after pouring it onto his dresser and then used his hand to swipe the flaming alcohol onto his bed. The juvenile later ran from the house, dropping his cell phone in the process. His parents became aware of the fire after smoke alarms activated. During the investigation investigators were able to obtain cell phone video of the juvenile recording himself performing the act. Although no injuries occurred during the incident, the fire caused an estimated $5,000 in damage.
The juvenile has been charged with 1st Degree Malicious Burning and Malicious Destruction of Property. The juvenile will be referred to Department of Juvenile Services. A motive for the fire has not been established.