NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — The suspect in custody following two fires Friday night in New Britain has been identified, said Mayor Erin Stewart.
Kimorah Parker, age 30, has been charged with Arson and Burglary in the third degree.
The fires broke out at a church and synagogue in the city, and Fire Chief Raul Ortiz told FOX61 that preliminary investigations indicate both were intentionally set, pending confirmation by the Fire Marshal.
Ortiz says police and fire officials, along with Mayor Erin Stewart, are canvassing other houses of worship in the Hardware City to make sure they are safe.
The first fire was reported at 76 Winter St. at the Congregation Tephereth Israel Synagogue on Winter Street. Ortiz said there was extensive damage there.
A second fire was then reported at 95 Franklin Sq. at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church. Minimal damage was reported there.
FOX61 has learned that the State Police Fire Investigations and Explosion Unit is also assisting in the investigation.
The suspect has not been identified at this time.
This story is still developing.
Daniel Dashefsky is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at ddashefsky@fox61.com.
----
Have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com
----
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.