Newington Motel Fire Was Arson: Chief

NEWINGTON, CT — Tuesday morning's fire at the Grantmoor Motor Lodge has been ruled arson, and a criminal investigation is underway.

Fire Chief Chris Schroeder said, "The fire was intentionally set."

A police officer on routine patrol noticed smoke coming from the Berlin Turnpike motel around 4:03 a.m. He called for help and began knocking on doors to evacuate the motel, Sgt. Christopher Perry said.

Firefighters had the blaze under control within 30 minutes.

Four police officers, including the initial responder, were hospitalized for smoke inhalation, as were an adult and child staying at the motel. All four officers were released Tuesday.

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