FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — State fire investigators are looking into two arson fires in Fort Fairfield that broke out on the evening of March 10, with one local man already arrested and the possibility of additional arrests still on the table.
According to officials, Fort Fairfield Fire Rescue was called at about 6:15 p.m. Tuesday to a structure fire in the area of the park and ride on Park Street. When crews arrived, they determined that smoke was coming from the old Public Works garage at 61 Park Street.
The Maine Fire Marshal’s Office was then asked to assist with the origin and cause investigation. A team of investigators responded to the scene and began working the case.
With assistance from the Fort Fairfield Police Department, investigators were able to locate two individuals suspected of being involved.
As the investigation continued, authorities determined that another fire had been set a short time earlier at an unoccupied home at 9 Park Street. Fort Fairfield Fire Rescue and investigators were able to identify and locate that second fire scene as well.
Officials said both fires were determined to be incendiary in nature and are being treated as arson.
Authorities arrested 19-year-old Leo Rideout Jr. of Fort Fairfield and charged him with arson. He was transported to the Aroostook County Jail.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials said additional arrests may follow.