(Sylvan Beach, NY – May 11, 2013) On May 10 Troopers from SP Sylvan Beach responded to a report of a suspicious fire at a seasonal residence located at 8177 Yager Road in the Town of Vienna. The fire had been extinguished by members of the McConnellsville Fire Department, however, the residence was heavily damaged by the fire.
The Oneida County Cause and Origin Team determined that the fire had been started as a result of human involvement.
Investigation by the New York State Police has resulted in the arrest of McConnellsville Fire Chief Howard Roache, 35, for starting this fire. Roache was charged with fourth-degree Arson, a Class E felony.
Additionally, McConnellsville Fire Department Fire Fighter James Goold, 54, has been arrested for starting a separate fire at an abandoned maintenance building in a gravel bed located at 3047 Wheeler Hill Road in the Town of Annsville, which occurred on Feb. 2. Goold was charged with third-degree Arson, a Class C felony.
Both subjects are awaiting arraignment at this time
Investigation into several other suspicious fires in the area is continuing.