Photo: Jordan Lye / Moment / Getty Images
An inmate at SCI Camp Hill in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, is facing serious charges after allegedly setting a fire in his cell. On Friday (October 17), Daquian Brown, 31, was removed from his cell in the Restricted Housing Unit after smoke filled the area, prompting the evacuation of 37 inmates and evaluations for smoke inhalation for others in a neighboring pod.
According to Local 21 News, state police found significant fire damage in Brown's cell, including burn marks on his prison-issued blanket, pillowcase, and sheets, as well as on the mattress, bed frame, and bunk. Investigators also discovered pieces of paper and metal staples sticking out of a burned outlet. The fire reportedly caused $309.55 in damages.
Despite being the sole occupant of the cell, Brown denied any knowledge of the fire. He now faces multiple charges, including arson of an inhabited building, arson endangering property, aggravated arson, recklessly endangering another person, and criminal mischief.
The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols within the facility and the potential for similar incidents in the future. The investigation is ongoing, and Brown's legal proceedings are expected to continue as the case develops.