By Bryna Zumer
The Aegis
BEL AIR, Md. — A Forest Hill man is charged with attempted murder and arson after he told deputies he set his house on fire early Christmas morning, the Office of the State Fire Marshal reported.
A firefighter was injured in the incident, according to the fire marshal’s office, as he fell through a heavily-damaged staircase while fighting the blaze.
The firefighter was taken to a local hospital for a minor leg injury, according to the Harford County Volunteer Fire & EMS Association.
Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company firefighters responded to the incident, in the 2400 block of Edwards Manor Drive, at about 2:48 a.m. Thursday, according to the release.
Nicholas Lester, 32, was detained by the Harford County Sheriff’s Office after he confessed to deputies that he set the fire, according to the release.
Lester waived his Miranda rights and was charged with first-degree and second-degree arson, three counts of first-degree attempted murder, four counts of reckless endangerment and first-degree and second-degree malicious burning, according to the release.
A basement apartment was also occupied by two adults and a child, according to the release. No other injuries were reported.
Fallston and Jarrettsville fire companies assisted Bel Air personnel, according to the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company.
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