Hudson Valley Firefighter Charged With Starting Fire

An East Fishkill volunteer firefighter is accused of setting the brush fire near the Dutchess Rail Trail earlier this month. 

Authorities say Nicholas C. Hughes, 24, of Wappinger set a large brush fire on April 15 in a secluded area off Route 376 near the Dutchess Rail Trail. Firefighters from nine different local fire companies battled the blaze for five hours to bring it under control, according to a press release from the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office (DCSO). Ultimately, nine acres were damaged.

An investigation by the DCSO's Detective Bureau and Arson Investigation Unit determined the fire had been intentionally set.

Hughes was arrested on Wednesday and charged with willfully setting a forest fire, reckless endangerment and arson.

Read the full release from the DCSO: