Crime
Maine Woman Charged With Arson, Attempted Murder In House Fire
A Maine woman is facing arson and attempted murder charges for allegedly starting a fire at a home with people inside, officials said.
The Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office said a 911 caller reported a fire at a residence on Bailey Road in Knox at around 10:43 p.m. on Monday, May 4. The Knox Fire Department and deputies form the Waldo County Sheriff’s Office responded.
Crews arrived to find that occupants of the home managed to suppress the flames using a fire extinguisher and water. The occupants were evaluated at the scene for smoke inhalation, and “several” dogs at the home escaped without injury.
The fire was “primarily” contained to a single bedroom, and due to “suspicious circumstances,” the State Fire Marshal was called to investigate.
Fire Marshal investigators determined the fire had been intentionally set. The suspect, 41-year-old Jessica Allsop, had been staying at the residence temporarily at the time.
Allsop was arrested by Fire Marshal investigators and booked into the Waldo County Jail on two counts of criminal attempt to murder, arson, and violation of conditions of release.
