Home / Crime and Justice / Firefighter Trial: Accused Arsonist Denies Involvement
Firefighter Trial: Accused Arsonist Denies Involvement
7 Oct
Summary
- Accused arsonist James Barnett denies involvement in the fatal Stricker Street fire.
- Medical examiner detailed severe burns and smoke inhalation injuries to three fallen firefighters.
- Barnett denied being in photos showing him leaving the fire scene.
The trial concerning the Stricker Street rowhome fire, which claimed the lives of three firefighters, continued with its second day of testimony. Lt. Kelsey Sadler, Lt. Paul Butrim, and EMT/firefighter Kenny Lacayo died when the structure collapsed, trapping them inside. Firefighter John McMaster sustained severe injuries and required extensive hospitalization.
Maryland's Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Stephanie Dean, provided detailed accounts of the victims' injuries. She testified that Kenneth Lacayo suffered burns on 30% of his body and showed signs of blunt force and smoke inhalation. Lt. Sadler had burns on 70% of her body, while Lt. Butrim sustained burns on 65% of his body. Both Sadler and Butrim experienced compressive asphyxia.
Baltimore police detective Kyle Kruesi discussed the investigation's commencement, including reviewing surveillance footage. Footage captured a man identified as James Barnett leaving the fire-affected rowhome. During a police interview, Barnett was shown these images but denied being the individual depicted.
Prosecutors presented hours of interview footage where Barnett expressed surprise at the investigation and denied being a "fire bug." He contested evidence placing him at the scene and agreed to DNA testing and fingerprint collection, stating he believed his prints would not be found.
