17 Fires Leave Southwest Baltimore Anxious; Police Make 2 Arrests But Still Seek Tips

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — The string of fires has terrorized Southwest Baltimore—17 since December 2. No one has died but several people in adjacent row homes have been forced out, leaving neighbors anxious.

"I was petrified when I looked out my window," said Charles Legins. "I could've lost everything. We have elderly people living in this neighborhood and this is an eyesore. It was really shocking and upsetting."

Police have ruled at least five of the fires as arsons and have arrested two men—Shawn Krainer and William Ritchie—for two of the fires.

Authorities have not yet said whether they may have been working together, responsible for more fires or if they're looking for more suspects. Both men have been denied bail.

Man Charged With Arson In SW Baltimore Fire Denied Bail.

Several people on Christian Street report seeing Krainer nearby when the fire started. One firefighter was injured putting out the flames there.

"My neighbor saw him," said a woman who lives across the street from the burned rowhome. "A mother and her son lived next door and they had to be evacuated their house had so much damage."

WJZ obtained charging documents for Ritchie, accused of setting a fire on Ramsay Street. 

They reveal an alert citizen lead police to him. An officer wrote Ritchie smelled of smoke and had a lighter. Police say he also lied about his name, but court records reveal nothing about a possible motive.

Police tweeted Tuesday they are seeking more tips and urged people to call Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7-Lockup.

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