Fire officials in Montgomery County report that a man has been arrested and charged with arson following a fire that broke out Tuesday evening at an apartment complex in Rockville. The incident occurred at the Bethesda Park Condos, located near Braxfield Court and Parklawn Drive, and resulted in significant property damage and the displacement of multiple families.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the complex around 7 p.m., after receiving reports of a fire inside one of the buildings. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered active flames on the third floor of a four-story apartment structure. Approximately 65 firefighters responded to the scene, working quickly to evacuate residents while simultaneously battling the blaze.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue spokesperson Pete Piringer shared photos and videos on social media showing firefighters using ladders to assist residents out of the building. According to Piringer, one resident from a nearby apartment was transported to the hospital with a non-life-threatening injury, though no other injuries were reported.
The fire caused an estimated $75,000 in damage, affecting several units and displacing multiple families. Fire investigators launched an immediate inquiry into the cause of the blaze. Their investigation led to the arrest of a man believed to have intentionally set the fire on the third floor.
Although authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity, they confirmed that he has been charged with first-degree arson, threat to burn, and reckless endangerment. At this time, officials have not disclosed the motive behind the incident, nor have they indicated whether additional charges may be forthcoming.
Further details about the investigation remain limited as authorities continue to assess the damage and interview witnesses. The case remains active, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.
