Man Arrested & Charged with Arson after Structure Fires in Maine

A 19-year-old man was arrested Tuesday night and charged with Arson after two fires were set in Fort Fairfield.

Arson Charges after Structure Fires Set in Fort Fairfield

Fort Fairfield Fire Rescue responded to a fire around 6:15 pm in the area of the park and ride on Park Street.

Smoke Coming from Public Works Garage

Firefighters determined smoke was coming from the Public Works garage at 61 Park Street.

Cause and Origin of Fire Under Investigation

The Fire Marshal’s Office was called to investigate the cause and origin of the fire.

Two People Suspected to be Involved in the Fires

“With the assistance of the Fort Fairfield Police Department, investigators were able to locate two individuals suspected to be involved,” according to Shannon Moss, Public Information Officer, Maine Department of Public Safety.

Man Arrested, Charged with Arson and Taken to County Jail

Leo Rideout Jr. from Fort Fairfield was taken into custody and charged with Arson. He was transported to the Aroostook County Jail.

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Second Fire Set at Unoccupied House

Investigators determined another fire had been set in an unoccupied house at 9 Park Street. Fire crews also responded to that location.

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Fires Were Incendiary and Ruled to be Arson

“Both fires were determined to be incendiary in nature and are considered Arson,” said the Maine Department of Public Safety.

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Additional Arrests Possible in Ongoing Investigation

More arrests may be pending as the investigation remains open and ongoing.