Investigators Say Newark Hotel Fire Overnight Was Deliberately Started, Guest Evacuated

The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined that a fire inside a Newark, Delaware hotel this morning was intentionally started, according to Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio.

Chionchio said the blaze, reported shortly after midnight, occurred at the Red Roof Inn located at 1119 South College Avenue. The Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company responded to the incident along with nearby neighboring mutual aid fire companies. No injuries were reported.

State fire investigators, called to the scene, determined that the fire was deliberately started inside the hotel and extinguished by the building’s fire suppression system, according to Chionchio. The fire alarm system at the hotel activated resulting in the safe evacuation of guests. A criminal investigation is underway.

Anyone with information regarding this arson is asked to call the State Fire Marshal’s – New Castle Division at (302) 323-5375 or email: [email protected] also callers may call Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Information offered to investigators will remain confidential.

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