Garrett County couple indicted in Friendsville house fire

Mar. 7—OAKLAND — A Friendsville couple was indicted on arson charges in connection with a fire at their residence last June that killed two cats and threatened six puppies in a kennel at the home, according to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office.

Christopher J. Baker, 36, and April J. Fazenbaker, 41, were charged with arson in the first degree and conspiracy to commit arson in the first degree as a result of the June 1, 2023, fire that occurred at their residence at 339 Cherry Lane Road in Friendsville.

Baker and Fazenbaker are awaiting trial after being granted pre-trial release Wednesday upon posting $20,000 bond each.

The indictments were returned Monday after the case was presented to a Garrett County grand jury by the Office of the State's Attorney and state fire investigators.

Investigators determined the 7:17 a.m. fire was deliberately set with two different points of origin in a dining room and a children's playroom inside the one-story dwelling owned by the couple.

Firefighters from six volunteer fire companies, including Friendsville, were able to extinguish the fire before the blaze extended to the front porch where six puppies were located in a kennel. Two cats perished inside the home before the fire was extinguished.

Damage was estimated at $10,000. The couple were provided emergency assistance by the American Red Cross following the fire that was discovered by a neighbor.

"After learning of this heartbreaking incident where the owners are accused of deliberately setting a fire that tragically led to the deaths of their cats and nearly killed a kennel of puppies, I am deeply saddened and appalled by this senseless act of cruelty," Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray said.