Fire in essex leads to arson and animal cruelty charges
The metal handcuffs on black background. Handcuff or shackle. Police handcuffs.

Fire In Essex Leads to Arson and Animal Cruelty Charges

BALTIMORE, MD – A Baltimore County man has been arrested for allegedly causing a home explosion in Essex last month that resulted in one person hospitalized and the death of a family dog. Michael Greensfelder faces charges including first-degree arson, malicious destruction of property, and animal cruelty.

The incident occurred on April 20 around 11:00 PM at a residence on Crafton Road, where Greensfelder lived with his estranged wife and children. Although his wife and children were not present during the explosion, it led to a two-alarm fire, leaving one man with non-life-threatening burn injuries.

Authorities believe the explosion also led to the death of the family’s dog, as stated by the homeowner in an interview with WJZ.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News