Crime & Safety

Police: Man Arrested After Setting Poles on Fire in Front of Empty Riverhead Building

The incident occurred at the former Walmart building on Old Country Road Tuesday night, police say.

A Flanders man was arrested after setting poles on fire in front of an empty building in Riverhead on Tuesday night, according to Riverhead Town Police.

A 911 caller reported he saw a man near the former Walmart building on 765 Old Country Road lighting poles on fire at 9:45 p.m., police said.

Police found Christopher J. Delane, 47, and saw him lighting safety bollards covers, police said.

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He was placed under arrest and the Riverhead Fire Department responded to extinguish the fires, police said.

Delane was transported to police headquarters where he was processed and charged with fifth degree arson, according to police.

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He was held for arraignment at the Riverhead Justice Court.

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