Maryland Juvenile Arrested and Charged with Attempted Murder as Adult in Arson Case

A 17-year-old juvenile has been arrested and charged as an adult with multiple offenses, including arson and attempted murder, following an investigation into a fire that occurred on August 10th. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal, the fire, which was contained to a single-family dwelling, is believed to have been intentionally set.

The incident began on the morning of August 10th when the Salisbury Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 1113 Grant Avenue. The fire, which was quickly controlled by approximately 20 firefighters, originated in one of the bedrooms of the one-story home. Deputy State Fire Marshals were dispatched to the scene to determine the fire’s origin and cause. Their investigation concluded that the blaze was deliberately started.

During the course of their investigation, authorities identified a 17-year-old male juvenile as the individual responsible for setting the fire within the occupied residence. Following discussions with the Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office, it was determined that the juvenile would face adult charges due to the severity of the alleged crimes.

The juvenile was taken into custody on August 13th and transported to the Wicomico County Detention Center. He appeared before a court commissioner and was denied bail due to the gravity of the charges, which include Arson 1st Degree, Arson 2nd Degree, two counts of attempted 1st Degree Murder, two counts of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Assault 1st Degree, two counts of Assault 2nd Degree, two counts of Reckless Endangerment, Malicious Burning 1st Degree, and two counts of Malicious Destruction of Property over $1,000.00. The attempted murder and assault charges stem from the fact that two occupants were present in the home at the time the fire was set. A functioning smoke alarm is credited with alerting the occupants, enabling their safe escape from the burning structure without injury.

A subsequent bond review hearing was held on August 14th before a District Court Judge, who ordered the juvenile to remain held without bail. If convicted of the attempted murder charges, the juvenile faces a potential life sentence. Convictions for the fire and assault charges could result in up to 199 years in prison and/or fines totaling $105,000.00.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland State Fire Marshal

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