A layer of confusion and secrecy still surrounds the fire that damaged Building J in the Chapin Apartment complex on August 23rd. However, Douglas F. Little, Assistant Chief of the University Police, has confirmed that the fire, which displaced 65 student residents, was a result of foul play.
At this point, Little could not divulge any more information because he said, ‘It’s still a very active investigation.’ Newsday reported that mattresses were found propped up against the outside of the building, and were a source of suspicion. After about two weeks, Campus Residences is unable or unwilling to provide any sort of plan for repairing the building.
Baycan Fideli, Associate Director for Campus Residences, said that the planning is somewhere in the early stages, adding, ‘We’re still trying to catch our breath.’ According to Newsday, six of the building’s 17 apartments were damaged in the blaze.
