Woman charged with setting Plainville apartment building on fire
Nov 19, 2024
PLAINVILLE, Mass. (WPRI) — A Plainville woman is accused of setting fire to the apartment complex where she lives, displacing more than 20 of her neighbors.
Heather A. MacKinnon, 61, has been charged with arson of a dwelling, malicious destruction of property, and disorderly conduct, according to Plainville police and fire officials and the state fire marshal's office.
Officials said the call came in around 5:15 a.m. Monday about a fire at 71 Messenger St. with residents possibly trapped. Firefighters from several area departments responded and managed to contain the fire to one unit. However, there was "extensive smoke and heat damage" throughout the building, officials added.
Several residents were treated for smoke inhalation, but there were no serious injuries, according to officials. A pet was also rescued and treated at the scene.
While the fire remains under investigation, officials said they were able to determine it was intentionally set based on evidence collected at the scene and witness interviews.
MacKinnon was arrested in North Attleboro and she's due in court on Tuesday.
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