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The Maryland Fire Marshal is investigating after Leonardtown resident Anthony Cleaver Mason, 64, allegedly set a blaze at the Super Eight Motel in California.
First responders from multiple agencies were called shortly after 8 p.m. on Monday, June 3 to the motel in the 22800 block of Three Notch Road to investigate a reported disturbance after an employee called 911 to report that some guests were arguing.
They also reported that the occupants broke a window and barricaded the door.
Deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office said that upon arrival they found Mason in the room attempting to start a fire, prompting them to activate the fire alarm and evacuating the motel.
According to the fire marshal, 48 firefighters from various departments, including Bay District, Hollywood, NAS Patuxent River, Leonardtown, Ridge, Valley Lee, and Solomons, responded and discovered fire showing, along with multiple people injured after jumping from the third floor.
One woman and her child had to be assisted out of the hotel, where she suffered a medical emergency. She was taken to an area hospital, while the minor was evaluated and released to another family member.
The incident caused an estimated $750,000 in damage.
Mason was arrested at the motel and charged with two counts of second-degree arson, reckless endangerment, and malicious burning.
He is being held at the St. Mary's County Detention Center in Leonardtown without bond.
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