PYROMANIAC KID CHARGED IN HOLLYWOOD FIRE

          HOLLYWOOD, MD (September 5, 2006) --  Deputy State Fire Marshals have charged a 13-year-old St. Mary’s County youth with first degree arson in connection with a March 20, 2006 dwelling fire on Riva Ridge Drive in Hollywood.  The 11:00 p.m. blaze caused an estimated $1,000 damage to the home of Wendy and Matthew Kruk.

           Information developed recently by Deputy State Fire Marshals identified the youth as having ignited shrubbery in front of the home.  The fire spread to the porch before being discovered by the owners.  They were successful in extinguishing the fire and were able to reoccupy the dwelling.

          The youth has also been charged with the threat to burn the home of another youth in Hollywood.  The threat was made on August 29, 2006 and it was during the investigation of this crime that information was found connecting him to the March incident.  The youth was referred on August 31, 2006 to the Department of Juvenile Services and was placed in the custody of a guardian pending disposition.