Newark, NJ, US: A 78-year-old New Jersey man was taken into custody late Sunday night after multiple police vehicles were set on fire in what authorities are calling a deliberate act of arson.
Late-Night Fires Shock Neighborhood
Residents in the city’s South Ward awoke to sirens and flashing lights shortly after midnight when at least two police cruisers parked outside a precinct station were engulfed in flames. Witnesses described seeing smoke billowing into the night sky as firefighters rushed to contain the blaze before it could spread to nearby buildings.
Officials confirmed that the cars, both parked in a secured lot near the precinct, suffered significant damage. No injuries were reported in the incident.
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Suspect Identified as Elderly Local
Police announced that the suspect, identified as 78-year-old Thomas Farrell of Newark, was arrested a short distance from the scene. Authorities say surveillance footage captured an individual matching his description near the vehicles moments before the fires erupted.
“There is no easy way to explain this kind of recklessness, especially from someone of his age,” Police Chief Dana Reynolds said in a press briefing Monday morning. “These acts put our officers, our community, and our city at risk.”
Possible Motive Under Investigation
Investigators have not yet disclosed a clear motive, though they confirmed the suspect has a history of disputes with local authorities. Neighbors described Farrell as a quiet man who kept to himself, though some hinted at longstanding tensions between him and city officials.
“It’s shocking,” said one resident who lives near his home. “You don’t expect something like this from a man his age. We thought he was just a loner, never causing much trouble.”
Community Response
The incident has shaken confidence among residents, who called the attack “senseless” and “dangerous.” City leaders assured the public that police presence will be increased around government facilities while the investigation continues.
Mayor Luis Ortega condemned the act in a statement, calling it an assault on public safety. “When someone targets law enforcement property, they target the security of the entire community. We will not tolerate such behavior,” he said.
Charges Pending
Farrell is currently being held at the Essex County Correctional Facility and faces multiple charges, including arson, destruction of government property, and reckless endangerment. Prosecutors indicated additional charges may follow as evidence is reviewed.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the arsons to come forward as investigators piece together a timeline of events leading up to the fires.
Looking Ahead
While crews continue assessing the damage to the destroyed police vehicles, officials stressed that their priority remains community safety. For Newark residents already grappling with concerns over crime and public trust, the incident underscored how even unexpected perpetrators can create widespread disruption.
The case is expected to move to preliminary hearings later this week, where details regarding Farrell’s alleged intentions may be revealed.
