Man arrested and charged with intentionally setting fires at CT inn, motel
A man was arrested and charged with arson in connection with fires at a motel and inn in New Haven in September, police said.
On Sept. 22, around 12:11 a.m., members of the New Haven Police Department and New Haven Fire Department responded to a report of a fire at Three Judges Motor Lodge at 1560 Whalley Avenue. At 12:41 a.m., a second fire was reported at the New Haven Inn at 100 Pond Lily Avenue, according to police.
Both fires were deemed suspicious, police said. The New Haven Fire Investigation Unit responded along with New Haven Det. Joe Aurora to determine the causes.
After an in-depth investigation, investigators developed a suspect and determined the same person was responsible for both fires, according to police.
A picture of the suspect was released to the public, and investigators were able to positively identify the person as 43-year-old Terence Bogan. Detective Aurora, who worked in conjunction with the New Haven State Attorney’s office, was able to secure an arrest warrant for both incidents, police said.
On Tuesday, New Haven Officer Endri Dragoi apprehended Bogan under active warrants. Bogan was charged with first-degree arson, reckless burning and first-degree reckless endangerment and was being held on a total of $700,000 in bonds, according to police.
“The collaboration between the various agencies was vital in the outcome of the case,” New Haven Sgt. Cherelle D. Carr said in a release on Friday. “The New Haven Police Department, New Haven Fire Department, New Haven Fire Investigation Unit, New Haven State’s Attorney, and Detective J. Aurora worked together closely to gather information and analyze evidence.
“The community involvement was also instrumental,” Carr added. “This case highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between police and community. The community played an essential role in identifying Bogan. This is a true testament of what can be done when we all work together for the betterment of the City of New Haven.