A volunteer firefighter was arrested Saturday on suspicion of starting multiple fires in 2023, the state fire marshal said.
Allison Nicole Kreutzer, a volunteer firefighter with Reese Volunteer Fire Company, was charged with “intentionally setting fire to grass, brush, or woodland,” according to a Facebook post from the Maryland State Fire Marshal. The 20-year-old also faces three counts of malicious arson, as well as a misdemeanor charge of making a false report of a fire.
“Last March, the State Fire Marshal's Office began investigating a series of intentional wood fires,” the post said. “The fire consisted of leaves, trees, leaves. Similar fires occurred on May 14 and June 8, 2023.”
“Investigators were also linked to Kreutzer calling 911 on May 8, 2023, reporting smoke near Route 32 and the Liberty Reservoir Bridge,” the Fire Marshal's Office added.
Kreutzer was a member of the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department at the time she allegedly set the fire, the press release states. She was suspended pending an investigation in August 2023 and did not renew her membership at the end of the year, after which she joined Leith Volunteer Fire Brigade. (Related: Former volunteer firefighter charged with arson after setting church on fire).
“I believe that the alleged actions of this one individual have led to thousands of dedicated career and volunteer firefighters serving our communities, especially those who dedicate themselves and their time to the state of Maryland. “We want to make it clear that this is not a reflection of the firefighters we serve. Although unfortunate, the actions of some do not disrespect the work and sacrifices of those in the fire service.” Deputy State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray said in a press release.
The press release states that Kreutzer was released on $10,000 unsecured personal bail.
The Leath Volunteer Fire Department has suspended Kreutzer and is making no further comment at this time. according to Company Facebook post.
“The individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law,” the fire company wrote.
