Mechanicsville, MD – A 13-year-old male faces arson charges after admitting to authorities he started a fire inside a 1997 Chrysler LHS four-door sedan. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the blaze occurred several weeks ago in the Mechanicsville area. No injuries were reported and damage to the vehicle is estimated at $500.
“The nearly two-month long investigation revealed a 13-year-old male had located the car in a less-frequented area of farm property and while playing with a flint and striker, managed to catch the seat on fire,” stated Dfm. Bruce Bouch. “The suspect confessed to the incident. He has been charged and released to the custody of his grandparents.”
Bouch reported the youth was charged with second-degree arson.
The fire, which self-extinguished, was discovered by the property owner. The investigation was handled by Dfm. Don Brenneman. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com