Arson: Central Mass House Fire Intentionally Set; 2 Injured In Blaze

Police have arrested a man and charged him with intentionally starting a Central Massachusetts house fire that injured two people on Tuesday, June 6.

Police arrested a 32-year-old man and charged him with starting a fire in Holden that injured two people and severely damaged a home on Tuesday, June 6.
Photo Credit: *Holden Fire Department Via Paul Shea Photography*

Josh Lanier

06/07/2023 4:07 p.m.

Evan Kelly, of Holden, was arraigned on Wednesday, Leominster District Court officials said. He is charged with arson, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon on a person over 60, reports said. He is being held without bond until a dangerousness hearing on Monday.

Investigators say Kelly intentionally set the fire at 24 Juniper Lane in Holden just after 7:30 p.m. Firefighters were able to get the blaze under control in about two hours. Two people inside were treated, though the extent of their injuries was not released. No firefighters were hurt.

Investigators said the fire was intentionally set in an attached garage and crept into the home, seriously damaging the basement and first floor.

Reports said Kelly lived at the home.

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