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A Siena College freshman, Joshua Thomas, has been charged with arson after allegedly starting three fires in Hines Hall on April 25. According to the Albany County District Attorney's Office, the 19-year-old from Saratoga poured rubbing alcohol on the ground and used a lighter to ignite a fire outside a dorm room where two students were sleeping. He then allegedly set two additional fires on the fourth floor, one in a bathroom stall and another in a common area.
Thomas was arraigned on Monday (May 5) on two counts of second-degree arson and one count of second-degree attempted arson. He pleaded not guilty and is currently held at the Albany County Correctional Facility. The investigation, conducted by Colonie police, led to Thomas's arrest shortly after the incidents.
Assistant District Attorney Stephen Lydon is handling the prosecution of the case. The charges against Thomas are serious, and if convicted, he could face significant legal consequences. The case highlights the dangers and potential consequences of arson, especially in a college setting where many lives could be at risk.