A teenager living at the Cheltenham Youth Facility damaged a sprinkler and set off a fire alarm, state officials reported. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the incident occurred Tuesday evening, Aug. 19 around 7:42 p.m.
“The activation of the false fire alarm and destruction of property was caused as a result of a 16-year-old male intentionally breaking a sprinkler head in his cell causing water to flow and the fire alarm to activate,” stated Dfm. Melissa Decker.
The incident occurred at the youth facility’s Henry Cottage. The youth, who was not identified, was charged with false fire alarm and destruction of property. Damage is estimated at $1,000.
The facility is located on Frank Tippett Road in Cheltenham in Southern Prince George’s County. It is run by the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com