CT EMS Agencies Hit By Molotov Cocktails, Suspect Located: Police

CONNECTICUT — Ambulance companies across Connecticut were on high alert Saturday night after multiple arson fires were set via Molotov cocktail and the suspect was taken into custody in New Milton, Pennsylvania on Route 80 around 10 p.m., according to State Police.

Richard White, 37, of Torrington, is accused of setting the fires and NBC Connecticut reports that he is an EMT for the state of Connecticut. Fires were reported in Meriden, Old Saybrook, and two in Roxbury including one at a residence, State Police said.

Another fire was set in the town of Washington but that incident remains under investigation to determine whether it was connected to the other arson fires, State Police said. The FBI is also assisting in the arson investigation.

Old Saybrook Police said they obtained an arrest warrant for White, of Wheeler Lane, and are charging him with third-degree arson and third-degree burglary. His bond is set at $150,000. As of Sunday morning, White has only been charged by Old Saybrook Police.

White is accused of starting an arson fire by a Molotov cocktail at the Hunters Ambulance Facility in Old Saybrook around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, police said.

"He is also connected to other arson fires started around that State this evening that targeted Emergency Medical Services Agencies," Old Saybrook Police said in a news release shared by the local Fire Department. "The State Office of Emergency Medical Services encouraged all EMS and Fire Agencies/Departments to increase security at their facilities until Mr. White is taken into custody."

“This individual has targeted those who we count on to save lives," said Michael A. Spera, Chief of Police. “Our Officers have worked diligently all evening obtaining both search and arrest warrants in an effort to quickly stop these violent attacks against public safety and cause the suspect to be taken into custody.”

A similar incident occurred in Meriden at the Hunter's Ambulance facility after 5 p.m. Saturday, and two more fires were set in Roxbury, Fox 61 reports.

Roxbury Fire Marshal Janet Morgan told Fox 61 that an ambulance in town was damaged during the fire. State Police on Sunday said the Roxbury fire station suffered significant smoke damage.

State Police confirmed that troopers responded to two fires in Roxbury, one at the fire house, 27 North Street, and one at 118 West Chalybes Road, which is a private residence just after 6 p.m.

The Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosive Investigation Unit determined that the fires were set intentionally, State Police said.

"These fires are suspected to be related to similar incidents in Old Saybrook and Meriden this evening," State Police said concerning the Roxbury fires.

Patch will continue to update this evolving story.