A woman was taken into custody at the scene of a fire in Worcester that left five people hospitalized late Wednesday night after police say she returned inside a burning multi-family home despite a significant rescue response.
According to the Worcester Police Department, the fire broke out around 10:42 p.m. in a rooming house at 41 May Street.
Initial reports came in that people were still on the third floor during the fire. According to police, the scene was chaotic when they arrived, making it difficult to tell who lived there.
Two people emerged and reported their presence on the third story, confirming that everyone else had evacuated the building. Then, for unknown reasons, authorities claim 37-year-old Sarah Beth Martinez returned to the burning residence barefoot.
Police say two cops had to go grab her and arrest her right away.
Martinez faces charges of impeding a firefighter, interfering with a firefighter, resisting arrest, disturbing the peace, and disorderly behavior. She also carries two outstanding warrants.
Four people and one firefighter were transported to the hospital.
The fire is still under investigation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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