A 70-year-old woman, Maria Salas, has been charged with first-degree arson after a fire broke out at an apartment complex in Bloomfield, Conn. on Friday morning. The fire resulted in at least one person, an 89-year-old woman, being hospitalized for smoke inhalation. Salas was arrested and her bond was reduced to $299,000 after admitting to starting the fire when police helped her out of the building.
The fire heavily damaged two apartment units and at least 14 others were affected by smoke. As a result, around 16 people were displaced from the building, which is now deemed uninhabitable. Bloomfield Social Services and the Red Cross are currently assisting those who have been displaced.
Salas, who has medical and mental health issues, is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 4 as the investigation into the fire continues by the state’s fire and explosion investigators. Authorities are expressing serious concern for public safety due to the incident.
The case is ongoing and the authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected by the fire in Bloomfield.
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