Loudoun County, VA – A Sterling man has been arrested following an investigation into a three-alarm fire that claimed one life early Friday, October 24. Officials say the blaze, which engulfed two townhomes on Riptide Square, was intentionally set.
According to the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) and the Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office (LCFR-FMO), the fire began around 1:00 a.m. and quickly spread to multiple homes, preventing firefighters from entering due to structural collapse risks.
During the investigation, authorities discovered the remains of Madelaine Samantha Akers, 36, a resident of one of the destroyed townhomes and the only person unaccounted for after the fire.
Further investigation led to the arrest of Jacob Bogatin, 78, of Sterling, on one count of felony murder and burning or destroying an occupied dwelling. Bogatin was taken into custody on Tuesday, October 28, and remains at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center. Officials say additional charges may follow.
Sheriff Mike Chapman praised investigators for their “diligent, swift, and thorough” work, emphasizing that the incident appears isolated. “The fire and loss of life is a tragedy for our community,” Chapman said.
Residents are reminded to check smoke alarms and review their fire evacuation plans. More safety information is available at www.loudoun.gov/firemarshal or by calling 703-737-8600.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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