Woman Claims She Was Holding a Séance Before Starting Apartment Fire
HAGERSTOWN, Md. — A Maryland woman is in custody after allegedly setting her apartment on fire.
Fire crews responded to The Ridge Apartments around 4 p.m. on Friday after reports of a fire. Upon arrival, responders found smoke coming from the three-story building. Fortunately, residents were able to evacuate safely once the fire alarm was activated.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze. During the initial investigation, Deputy State Fire Marshals determined the fire had been deliberately set. Witnesses reported that April Hough had barricaded herself inside the leasing office and admitted to starting the fire.
According to staff, Hough claimed she had been performing a séance prior to setting the apartment ablaze. Investigators also discovered that Hough had removed multiple fire extinguishers from the building before starting the fire.
Based on the evidence, officials confirmed the fire was intentionally set. Hough was arrested at the scene and is facing charges including first-degree arson, first-degree malicious burning, malicious destruction of property, and reckless endangerment.
She is currently being held without bond. Authorities have not yet released information on any injuries, how many residents have been displaced, or the extent of the damage.
