Angry Ex-Girlfriend Sets Massive Fire: PG County Investigators

NEW CARROLLTON, MD -- Fire investigators have determined a three-alarm fire in New Carrollton last month was "incendiary" and police have arrested the woman they believe set it because she was angry with an ex-boyfriend.

Firefighters responded to a fire at 5334 85th Avenue just before 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 17 and found a working fire in a three-story garden-style apartment building, according to a report from Prince George's County Fire/EMS.

After two hours, firefighters finally put out the blaze, but not before it damaged four apartment buildings, caused an estimated $2.2 million in damages, and displaced about 130 residents, the report states. Fortunately, no one was injured.

Investigators identified a suspect and police arrested 32-year-old Natasha Ciara Joyner of New Carrolton on Thursday. She is charged "with several crimes after setting the fire because she was allegedly upset with an ex-boyfriend," the report states.

Police charged her with first degree arson, second degree arson, first degree malicious burning, malicious destruction of property greater than $1,000, and reckless endangerment. More charges may be coming, authorities say.

Image via Prince George's County Fire/EMS