Fatal Akron Fire: Suspect Denied Bond

AKRON, OH — An Akron man arrested in connection with a fatal arson fire has been denied bond. The man is accused of setting a fire in the city that broke out earlier this month and left seven people dead, including five children and two adults, state and local officials announced Tuesday.

According to authorities, Stanley O. Ford, 58, was arrested and charged with one count of aggravated arson and seven counts of aggravated murder. Officials with the state's fire marshal's office, the Akron police department and the Akron fire department worked together on the investigation.

“This is a devastating tragedy for our community,” Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan said in a statement. “The safety of our residents is my top priority, and I vow to do everything in my power to ensure that justice is achieved for these victims and their families.”

The fire broke out at the home on Fultz Street early morning on May 15, leaving the interior of the home charred. At the time of the fire, city officials said the fire department responded quickly to extinguish the blaze but was unable to immediately access the upper level of the home due to "significant, internal structural damage."

Neighbors who called 911 said that flames were shooting from the home and another caller described it as being "almost burnt up," Cleveland.com reported at the time.

In April 2016, a fire that broke out two blocks away from the scene of the fire claimed two lives and was ruled an arson.

Image via Ohio State Fire Marshal's Office