ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Eight people were able to escape from a house fire that began after a man reportedly set his own home on fire during the course of a domestic incident at Magnolia Street Saturday.
In an update issued by Rochester Police Saturday at 11 p.m., the investigation into the house fire revealed that a male resident had assaulted a female.
Officials say the victim fled her home to escape the attacker. When she returned, the residence was on fire.
Authorities were able to locate the man on West High Terrace near Genesee Street later on. According to police, he fought with officers but was ultimately taken to custody.
The 37-year-old man was charged with the following:
- Arson in the Second Degree
- Assault in the Third Degree
- Endangering the Welfare of a Child
- Resisting Arrest
When the Rochester Fire Department arrived at the scene of the incident, firefighters say they saw fire on the first floor of the two-family home shortly after 3 a.m.
According to officials, all the residents were able to exit the house before the firefighters got there.
Authorities say it took fire crews approximately 15 minutes to bring the fire under control. The house sustained significant damage on its first floor. There were no reported firefighters or civilians injured.
The Red Cross responded to assist the three adults and five children who were displaced by the fire.
Check back with News 8 WROC as we will continue to update this developing story.