MATTHEWS, N.C. — Peter William Blaich, 54, has been arrested and charged by the Matthews Police Department in connection with a fire at an unoccupied building.
The charges stem from an incident where an old Boston Market on East Independence Boulevard caught fire on Jan. 12.
Blaich is an employee of the Town of Matthews, according to police. He is listed as a battalion chief on the town’s website.
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While the specifics about the cause of the fire have not been disclosed, the ongoing investigation involves assessing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The town of Matthews released a statement regarding the incident, saying:
“The Town is aware of the criminal charges announced today by the Matthews Police Department involving a Town employee.
Upon learning of the situation, immediate action was taken in accordance with policy, and that employee has been placed on leave pending the completion of an administrative investigation.
The charges involve an individual employee and do not reflect the values, standards, or professionalism of Matthews Fire & EMS, and the Town continues to have full confidence in the department and its leadership.
As this is an ongoing legal matter and criminal investigation, the Town will not comment further at this time.”
This remains an active investigation, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
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