On March 25 at 6:16 a.m. Binghamton police and fire department responded to 106 Henry St., Binghamton, which is the “DIXIE 2000” rooming house for a report of a fire. Upon arrival and investigation it was determined that a fire had occurred in the first-floor business office area. The fire was extinguished by a working fire suppression sprinkler system.
The preliminary investigation identified a possible suspect. Subsequent investigation by city Detectives was conducted and on 3/25/19 at about 6:30 p.m., Jerry D. Hopkins (DOB 2/29/60 of 104 Henry Street #3) was charged with Arson 2nd Degree a Class B Felony for this crime.
Investigation of the incident by the Binghamton Police Patrol and Detective Divisions as well as the Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the building owner’s office was broken into. The interior of the office was doused in a liquid accelerant, was ignited and an explosion occurred which caused extensive damage. The resulting fire was extinguished by the sprinkler system. All residents were evacuated and no injuries were sustained. Any suspects had fled the area prior to police arrival. Residents were later allowed to reoccupy the structure as damage was confined to the first floor.
State Fire K-9 assisted the investigation at the scene. Anyone with information on this incident is encouraged to contact detectives at 607-772-7080.
