Connecticut Arson Case Explained |

Connecticut Arson Case Explained

Arson is one crime that negatively impacts everyone- even those who are directly involved in the crime. From property loss to escalating insurance premiums, the price tag has to be shared by innocent parties everywhere. That’s why it is important to identify arsonists and hold them accountable for their intentional acts.

One such case involving arson has taken over the news in Naugatuck, Connecticut. But this case differs from most because of the suspect involved. Police say that this particular case is due to the actions of an unlikely suspect- a 75-year-old woman.

Raenn Goss was a tenant in the home of Manuel Nobre. According to police reports, Goss was being evicted for failing to pay rent for several months. Court documents show that she had a gambling problem.

When the time came to move, Goss enlisted the help of friends from her church to help her remove her belongings from the home. After most of her belongings had been removed from the residence, she then set fire to a mattress in the bedroom. Goss’ son was standing with her in the kitchen when he noticed smoke coming from her bedroom. When he entered the room, the entire bedroom was engulfed in flames.

Nobre, who lives on the second floor of the residence was at home with his wife when the fire broke out. Fortunately, both Nobre and his wife escaped unharmed.

Nobre was not only shocked at Goss’ retaliation over the eviction, but also by her claims. As Goss passed by Nobre while she was being led away by police, she said that he (Nobre) was to blame for the entire incident and that he deserved what happened.

Goss originally denied accusations that she deliberately set the fire saying that she might have inadvertently dropped a lit cigarette. But eventually, police say that Goss admitted to intentionally setting fire to the curtains.

Meanwhile, an investigation by fire officials may uncover more of the story. They believe that an accelerant was used on the mattress to start the fire.

Goss was transported to jail and booked on charges including first-degree arson, first-degree reckless endangerment and first-degree criminal mischief. After appearing before a judge, her bond was set at $100,000. She currently remains behind bars awaiting trial.

If your property has been damaged or destroyed by arson, you need to speak to an attorney to see what your options are. The costs related to replacing your belongings and rebuilding can be astronomical. Even if insurance does manage to cover the losses, you could potentially lose your coverage as a result of the claim. At the very least, you risk having your premiums go up dramatically. At that point, you could be considered a high-risk to other carriers, as well.

You should not have to pay because of the destructive act of an arsonist. Having an experienced attorney in your corner means that the guilty party can be brought to justice. This will help not only protect you, but it will also protect others who might fall victim to this despicable act.