Fire Marshals: Men Set Bronx Bar On Fire After Being Kicked Out

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Two men were arrested Friday after authorities alleged they set fire to a Bronx bar after being asked to leave the establishment.

New York City fire marshals arrested Robert McCurdy, 48, and John Teelan, 52, on charges of arson, reckless endangerment, and criminal mischief in connection with the Mother's Day fire, according to the FDNY.

"If anyone attempts to use fire as a weapon to injure and intimidate others or to damage property, FDNY Fire Marshals will track them down and arrest them," said Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro said in a news release. "Arson is a callous crime which senselessly puts the lives of New Yorkers and FDNY members in danger. I salute our Fire Marshals for their extensive investigation which removed two dangerous individuals from our city's streets."

Authorities said the men were at the Woodlawn Café, at 3700 Jerome Ave. in the Norwood section of the Bronx on May 8, when they were asked to leave after a quarrel.

Fire marshals said the duo returned later with a cooler full of gasoline, and splashed the accelerant on the building before lighting it on fire. Authorities said the tavern and restaurant were open at the time.

The FDNY quickly came to put out the fire and wash away any remaining gasoline, the FDNY said. No one was injured.

Fire officials said the men were captured on surveillance video setting the blaze. In the video, the suspects are seen lighting the building on fire, and then attempting to flee in a vehicle while one of the suspects was himself on fire, the FDNY said.

The suspects were arrested following an investigation by the Fire Marshals and the NYPD.

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