Stephen Williams Charged In February 9 Baltimore House Fire That Injured 9 People
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Police have arrested a suspect in the house fire that injured nine people on February 9, they announced Thursday.
Stephen Williams, 27, was arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder, malicious destruction of property and second-degree assault.
Three children, two Baltimore City Police officers and four other adults were injured in the fire in the 5100 block of Plainfield Avenue.
Hours before the fire, police said they got a call for a reported case of larceny at the home. Officers didn't find any evidence of larceny at the time.
Then, Sunday morning, police got another call for a family disturbance and destruction of property at the same house. When officers arrived they found a fire.
"We had people hanging from the side windows of the dwelling," Baltimore City Fire Department Chief Roman Clark said.
Officials said a babysitter was inside the home at the time and she evacuated three children trapped inside.
Her family told WJZ she is a hero for her quick thinking.
"She put her own life on the line, she's a hero," Calvin Bethea, a family member of the babysitter, said.
Neighbors said it was a sight they will never forget.
"The smoke was coming from the windows, so you could see it," Taykonya Cheeks, a neighbor, said.
Police said Williams faces seven counts each of attempted first-degree murder and first and second-degree assault. He's also facing charges for arson and reckless endangerment.