NEW YORK (AP) - A former tenant has been arrested on arson and attempted murder charges in connection with a Memorial Day fire that trapped 16 people in a burning building.
Fire officials say 37-year-old Sean Figaro used a flammable substance to ignite the early morning fire in Canarsie. Firefighters rescued 16 people from the back of the building. All had non-life threatening injuries.
Officials say Figaro lived in the building for several years but recently moved out due to a domestic dispute.
FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro on Thursday called it a “heinous act.” He said the firefighter’s quick work saved lives.
It wasn’t clear if Figaro had a lawyer who could comment.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.