ANN ARBOR—Two men suspected of setting several fires on March 30 in Bursley Hall at the University of Michigan were arrested today (April 11). The Washtenaw County Prosecutor authorized warrants for John Parkhurst MacDonald, 19, and Justin Eric Angelino, 19, according to Capt. James Smiley, U-M Department of Public Safety (DPS). The suspects, both U-M students, were residents of Bursley at the time of the fires.

“Department of Public Safety officers responded to an anonymous tip and were able to identify the alleged perpetrators of this crime,” Smiley said. “The investigation continues, and we encourage anyone with information about the fires to contact DPS at 763-1131.”

Smiley said the University sponsors an anonymous tip line, the Confidential Assistance Network, which can be reached by calling 800-863-1355. The Michigan Arson Prevention Committee, which also accepts anonymous tips, offers up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of persons suspected of arson. The MAPC can be reached by calling 800-44- ARSON.

MacDonald was charged with three counts of arson of a dwelling house, a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison on each count, Smiley said. Angelino was charged with one count of arson of a dwelling house. The defendants were arraigned before 15th District Court Magistrate James Sexsmith on Thursday and released on personal recognizance bonds. A preliminary exam is scheduled for April 24.

U-M Fire Marshal Robert Patrick, associate director of DPS, said he is relieved the suspects have been apprehended. “The University takes arson very seriously because the risk for injury or even death is so high, especially in a residence hall where people sleep. We absolutely cannot tolerate this type of behavior on campus.”

Patrick said a housing security officer broke his foot while responding to the fires. Damage to the building was estimated at