FRANKLIN, NJ — A New Brunswick man has been charged in connection with a fire that damaged a four-unit building in Somerset, displaced three families and killed two pets, said Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald.
Perfecto Quintana, also known as Perfecto Quintana Montes, 56, was arrested and charged with second-degree aggravated arson, second-degree residential burglary, fourth-degree criminal mischief, fourth-degree criminal contempt and two counts of fourth-degree animal cruelty.
On Friday at about 3:45 p.m., an active residential fire was reported on Home Street in Somerset.
The home had four apartments, one of which was on fire, according to McDonald.
The fire damaged the building and displaced three families made up of 11 adults and four kids, said McDonald.
A dog and a cat were found in the home, and although efforts were made to provide care for the animals, both were later pronounced dead by Franklin Township Animal Control.
No residents were reported injured. The American Red Cross responded to help families needing temporary shelter.
An investigation by Franklin Township Police Detectives, Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Special Investigation Unit, Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Fire Investigation Unit found that Quintana was seen on video arriving at the home in his vehicle before the fire.
Quintana reportedly approached the building while carrying a container close to his body, then was later seen carrying what appeared to be an empty pitcher before leaving the area.
Within minutes, Franklin Township police received calls reporting a fire at the building.
People in the crowd at the fire told police that Quintana was driving in the area.
Franklin Township officers stopped Quintana, saw signs of intoxication, and took him into custody, according to McDonald.
Quintana was charged and lodged in the Somerset County Jail pending a court hearing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office at 908-231-7100, the Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-5533, SCPO.TIPS or the Somerset County Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477).
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