Community Pitching In After Essex Family Loses Home To Arson
ESSEX, Md. (WJZ) -- An Essex family tries to salvage what they can after a neighbor firebombs their house.
Monique Griego explains how the community has pitched in to help.
The homeowners are devastated by what they lost, but they're also thankful for all the support they have received.
Four days after arson gutted the Essex home, the owners--with the help of the community--are sorting through the rubble, trying to salvage what they can.
"I'm just overwhelmed," said Rose Bartko, home destroyed by arson.
Bartko is still in shock about the events that led to her house and everything she owned going up in flames.
Baltimore County Police say her neighbor, 65-year-old John Mosley, firebombed the house after getting into an argument with Bartko's partner, Katherine.
"She went home and was actually in the process of calling police for help when she heard a loud noise and saw shattering windows and fire," said Elise Armacost, Baltimore County Police.
While Katherine narrowly escaped with her life, the couple's dog died in the fire and a cat is still missing.
"We're still searching desperately to try and find Frankie," Bartko said. "Because maybe there is a possibility that maybe he got out."
Friends and neighbors are pulling together to help the couple get through this tough time. Many have even donated money to a GoFundMe account set up to help them.
For Bartko, the community's generosity gives her a small glimmer of hope.
"The outpouring of support is just overwhelming," she said.
Mosley has been charged with arson and attempted murder. He remains in jail.
To help the family, click here.
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