Arrest made in Wheaton College Fires

On February 7, 2019 at approximately 3:26 a.m. Norton Fire, Norton Police and Wheaton Public Safety were dispatched to a box alarm on the 3rd floor of McIntyre Hall.  Upon arrival, a fire was observed in the hallway from an old water fountain.  Students were safely evacuated and the fire was extinguished. Massachusetts State Police investigators assigned to the Office of the State Fire Marshal were notified as they have assisted in the prior fire incidents.

This was the sixth fire in McIntyre Hall since November 28, 2018. 

During today’s investigation, a suspect was developed.  This suspect was interviewed by Norton detectives.  Based on a number of factors including statements made by the suspect, Norton Police arrested Janelys Pimentel, age 22, who was charged with the following:

Two (2) counts of Arson MGL Ch 266-1 from fires on 12/2/18

Four (4) counts of 266-126A – Wantonly Injuring Real and Personal Property for fires on 11/28/18, 12/2/18, 12/14/18 and 2/7/19

Six (6) counts of Vandalism  MGL CH 266-126a for the fire incidents which occurred during the above dates.  

There were no reported injuries during any of these incidents. 

Pimentel was processed at the Norton Police Department and will be transported to Attleboro District Court for arraignment.  She is a student at Wheaton College.