Juvenile arrested in connection with arson at valley central high school

MONTGOMERY, N.Y. — A juvenile has been arrested and charged with arson in the second degree in connection with two fires set inside Valley Central High School while classes were in session, according to Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler and Town of Montgomery Police Chief John Hank.

The incident occurred on January 9, 2025, at approximately 12:30 p.m., when the juvenile allegedly started two separate fires in bathrooms on the second floor of the high school. Over 1,300 students were present in the building at the time, and another student was in one of the restroom stalls when one of the fires was started. While no injuries were reported, the fires caused damage and charring to the bathroom.

A prompt investigation was conducted by the Town of Montgomery Police Department with assistance from the Hudson Valley Arson & Explosives Task Force, Orange County Fire Investigation Unit, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. The Valley Central School District also provided assistance during the investigation.

“The unsettling allegations in this case were quickly investigated by talented members of law enforcement,” said District Attorney Hoovler. “Thankfully, there were no injuries in this case despite the danger posed by the actions of the alleged offender.”

Due to the juvenile’s age, no further information about the individual has been released.

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