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A historic home in the area was destroyed by a quick-moving fire in what is believed to be arson.
The fire broke out in Poughkeepsie, at 27 South Clinton St., at around 5:15 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 14.
First arriving units encountered heavy fire conditions in the first floor and porch area as well as in a detached garage in the rear of the house, said City of Poughkeepsie Fire Chief Mark Johnson.
A second-alarm was transmitted requesting additional assistance from Arlington and Fairview fire departments.
There were two residents home at the time of the fire and both escaped without injury. No firefighters were injured.
More than 40 firefighters responded to the scene of the fire at the home known throughout the area as the "Halloween House," due to decorations that can be seen both inside and out of the home.
The fire was under control within about an hour-and-a-half, he added.
After the fire was extinguished the Fire Department began an investigation into the cause and origin of the fire, it was quickly determined the fire was arson, said Poughkeepsie Police Lt. Matt Clark.
Video from the area shows what appears to be a male walk up to the house carrying two gas cans, he splashes a liquid on the front porch and ignites the liquid, and flees, Clark said.
We are asking for anyone in the area who has a camera system to save any video from around this time and call the Police Department at 845-451-7577.
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