2 Suburban Teens Accused In Fire During Twin Cities Protests

SAINT PAUL, MN — More charges were filed Tuesday as the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives continues its investigation into vandalism that took place in the Twin Cities during the unrest over the death of George Floyd.

Samuel Frey, 19, of Brooklyn Park and Bailey Baldus, 19, of Ramsey each face a count of conspiracy to commit arson in connection to a fire set at Great Health and Nutrition.

The business, along University Avenue in the Midway neighborhood of Saint Paul, was vandalized and burned on May 28.

Federal investigators said they obtained video surveillance footage from inside the store showing the night of the arson. Following a public request for tips and identifying information, investigators were able to identify Frey and Baldus in the surveillance video footage, according to the criminal complaint.

Frey can be seen pouring flammable hand sanitizer onto a shelving unit and lighting it on fire while Baldus was with him, investigators said.

Frey and Baldus made their initial court appearance Tuesday in St. Paul. Both were in custody at the Sherburne County Jail.