Suspect Nabbed In Arson Fire That Killed 2 In Wappinger

TOWN OF WAPPINGER, NY — Police have closed in on a suspect in a home arson fire that left two dead.

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office said that 34-year-old Robert J. Buda was arrested in connection to a residential structure fire that took place in the Town of Wappinger on Sunday.

Around 6:30 p.m., deputies responded to 78 Marlorville Road after a report of a fire. Once the fire had been extinguished, two victims were found inside, and both were dead.

After an investigation, Buda was arrested for intentionally setting fire to the home. He was charged with felony second degree arson. After being arraigned before the Town of Wappinger Court, he was remanded to the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center in lieu of $500,000 cash bail or $1,000,000 bond.

The sheriff's office says there is no danger to the public. The investigation is ongoing and more information will be released at a later time.

Anyone who may have information on this incident or may have been in the Marlorville Road area during Sunday evening is asked to contact Detective Griffin at 845-486-3809 or through this email address. Information can also be provided through the Sheriff's Office tipline at 845-486-CLUE (2583) or through this email address. All information will be kept confidential.

The Sheriff's Office is being assisted in the investigation by the Dutchess County District Attorney's Office, the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response, the Dutchess County Fire Investigation Division, the Dutchess County Medical Examiner, and the Hughsonville Fire Department.