Update: Arson Arrest Made for Destructive Rochester Apartment Fire

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- A fire at a Rochester apartment complex that displaced more than a dozen people earlier this month is now suspected of being intentionally started. 

Read More: Early-Morning Rochester Apartment Fire Displaces More Than a Dozen People 

That’s according to Rochester Police Department Communications Coordinator Amanda Grayson. The Rochester Fire Department responded to the blaze around 4:45 a.m. on January 6.  

Responding firefighters found heavy fire and smoke pouring out of multiple windows and openings on the building’s second floor and fought the fire during single-digit temperatures. 

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The fire, which broke out at the Falcon Landing Apartments at 897 16th Ave. Southeast, inflicted extensive damage to one apartment and caused smoke damage to multiple other units on the second floor of the building, the Rochester Fire Department said. 

No injuries were reported. The American Red Cross responded to the scene to assist the displaced residents.

Rochester Police: Man Suspected of Starting Fire at  Falcon Landing Apartments Arrested After Investigation

On Monday morning, Grayson said the investigation into the fire indicated the blaze was set intentionally by 46-year-old Richard Dalton. 

Dalton initially told investigators the fire started when he fell asleep with a cigarette, however evidence collected indicated he intentionally started the destructive fire, according to the police report. 

Dalton was formally charged today in Olmsted County Court with first and third-degree arson. He was released without bail, but with conditions and is scheduled to return to court for another hearing next month.

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