One cat killed in arson fire, another injured
Norwalk, CT (US)

Incident Date: Friday, Feb 23, 2007
County: Fairfield

Disposition: Alleged

Alleged: Karen Geiffert

Karen Geiffert, 52, of 23 Mills St. was arrested April 19 on charges of first-degree arson, first-degree reckless endangerment and cruelty to animals.

According to police, the charges stem from a fire at Geiffert's home on Feb. 23. Both police and fire personnel responded to the incident and found flames engulfing Geiffert's bedroom.

After the fire was extinguished, investigators concluded it had begun with the aid of a flammable substance and what may be considered a fire accelerant, Police Sgt. Andre Velez said in a press briefing last Friday. Upon the bed were also several synthetic fire logs, he said.

One cat perished in the fire, while a second survived and was taken to the animal shelter to be treated, Velez said.

The Fire Department was unable to locate the resident at first, but Geiffert was soon discovered and taken to the hospital for treatment, said Velez. She had no injuries and was cooperative.

The investigation determined that the fire had been caused by human intervention, Velez said.

Geiffert was held in lieu of $500,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court today.

References

• « CT State Animal Cruelty Map
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