Inmates at Eastern Correctional Institute Face Arson Charges

Three inmates at the Eastern Correctional Institute (ECI) in Westover have been charged with fire-related offenses following incidents that occurred at the facility in February and March of this year. Deputy State Fire Marshals served criminal summonses to the individuals at the correctional institution on March 19, 2026.

Matthew Moore, 33, is accused of intentionally starting a fire within his cell on February 24, 2026. Following an investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, it was determined that the fire was a result of arson. Consequently, Moore faces charges including Arson 1st Degree, Malicious Burning 2nd Degree, and Malicious Destruction of Property. If convicted of all charges, Moore could face a maximum sentence of 31 years and 8 months in prison, along with potential fines totaling $51,000.

Dylan Davin, 29, has been charged in connection with an incident on March 19, 2026. Davin allegedly set his food tray on fire inside his cell and then pushed it into the hallway. The Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated the blaze and concluded that it was intentionally set. Davin faces a charge of Malicious Burning 2nd Degree, with a potential penalty of 18 months incarceration and/or a $500 fine if found guilty.

River Donovan, 28, is accused of setting fire to various combustible materials in his cell, including his mattress, on March 11, 2026. The fire reportedly spread to a wooden barrier placed over his cell door. In addition to the property damage, Donovan is also alleged to have threatened to burn the prison and his cellmate. The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s investigation determined this incident to be arson. Donovan faces charges of Arson 1st Degree, Malicious Burning 2nd Degree, Malicious Destruction of Property, and Threat of Arson. The maximum penalty for these charges, if convicted, is 40 years and 8 months imprisonment and/or $61,000 in fines.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is a division of the Department of State Police committed to public safety through fire prevention, education, inspection, and investigation. For more information on fire safety, individuals can contact 1-800-525-3124 or visit the Maryland State Fire Marshal website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

Video Spotlight