The Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a burglary and arson incident that occurred late Thursday near Schuylkill Haven.
On October 3, 2024, around 10:45 p.m., emergency responders were dispatched to the 200 block of Route 61 South in North Manheim Township for reports of a house fire. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene and found a fire in the kitchen. The flames were brought under control within five minutes of their arrival.
Following conversations with neighbors, firefighters requested assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven.
According to police, a neighbor witnessed three males leaving the residence with items belonging to his neighbor, who was not home at the time. The neighbor attempted to chase the suspects, but they fled the scene. Shortly afterward, the neighbor observed a fire in the kitchen of the residence, believed to have been started by the fleeing suspects.
The neighbor also reported seeing a female in the area earlier that day and suspected she may have been surveying the residence prior to the burglary. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the suspects had also caused damage to 15 vehicles on the property.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information or security camera footage that could assist law enforcement is encouraged to contact the Schuylkill Haven Barracks at (570) 754-4600.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.