Faulkner, MD – A fire that occurred late Monday night, Aug. 28 at the Southern Maryland Youth Home was set deliberately, state investigators reported. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, a 14-year old male suspect is in custody and has been charged with first-degree arson. The youth home is located on Sodus Manor Place in Faulker.
A deputy fire marshal’s report stated the fire originated on a bedroom mattress and the suspect “used a lighter and ignited bedding materials. The suspect also heated pieces of metal and threw them at the other occupants. He was transported to the Cheltenham Youth Facility where he remains pending court actions.”
The Southern Maryland Youth Home has eight occupants including staff members. No injuries were reported. There was no damage to the two-story, wood-frame dwelling. Damage to contents in the house was estimated at $50. Five firefighters responded to the blaze, which was out prior to the volunteers’ arrival.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the investigation.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com