Officials: Arsonist Sets House On Fire While Family Is Sleeping

File

Middletown – The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined that this morning’s house fire in Middletown is a case of arson, according to Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio.

Chionchio said the blaze, reported shortly after 4:00 am, occurred in the unit block of West Lockwood Street near North Broad Street. The Volunteer Hose Company responded to the scene and were able to extinguished the fire.

State fire investigators were called to the scene and are conducting the criminal investigation. The fire was intentionally started while five children and two adults were asleep inside, said Chionchio. Everyone escaped from the house without injury, Chionchio added.

Fire damage was estimated at $10,000. The five children and two adults have been relocated.

Anyone with information regarding this fire is asked to contact the State Fire Marshal’s New Castle Division at (302) 323-5375 or Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333.

About Staff Writer

First State Update's Delaware editorial team covers New Castle County, Kent County and Sussex County breaking news, political news, and general news stories. We bring the reader the latest news from the Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Rehoboth Beach and all point in between. If you have news to share, email us at [email protected].

View all posts by Staff Writer →