Man Facing Arson Charges Following New Bedford Basement Fire

A New Bedford man is facing charges following a Sunday night basement fire.

Detective Captain Steven Vicente says that at around 6:45 p.m. officers and fire crews were sent to 28 Bentley St. for a report of a basement fire.

Residents in the home heard smoke alarms and were able to evacuate the home safely.

Although there were no injuries the families were displaced and are being assisted by the Red Cross.

Vicente says that following an investigation it was determined that the suspect, identified as 36-year-old Christopher Viger, was playing street football with some youths earlier in the day.

Viger left the area following an argument then returned asking about the whereabouts of the people involved in the argument.

He was later spotted going into the home where he is accused of gathering clothing and other items in an area and setting them on fire, before running away a short time later.

This was around the same time the fire was detected and Viger allegedly had a cigarette lighter with him.

Following a search of the area Viger was found on Sawyer St. at around 9:30 p.m. and taken into custody.

Viger was scheduled to be arraigned Monday morning in New Bedford District Court on Breaking and Entering and Arson charges.