MANVILLE, N.J. – Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald, in collaboration with Chief of County Detectives Francisco Roman Jr., confirmed the arrest of Paul Basta, a 25-year-old resident of June Place, Manville. Basta is accused of arson in Manville Borough.
On Monday, May 15, around 3:43 a.m., Manville Police Department officers reacted to a 9-1-1 call concerning a house fire.
The Manville Fire Department tackled the blaze while detectives from multiple units began the investigation. They identified Paul Basta as the alleged perpetrator of the arson.
Consequently, Paul Basta was apprehended on Wednesday, August 16, and now faces 2 counts of 2nd degree, Aggravated Arson.
He is currently detained at the Somerset County Jail. The officials request anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the provided hotlines.