A New Orleans man is facing charges after his alleged theft of electricity led to a fire.
"On Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at 12:40 a.m., the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) responded to a report of residential fire at the intersection of Allen Street and Hope Street," Operator Gregory Davis said in a news release.
The first firefighters arrived at 12:46am and found a one-story wood framed abandoned dwelling burning with flames spreading to nearby houses.
"Firefighters brought this fire under control at 1:22 am and requested a fire investigator. The NOFD Investigator noticed illegal electrical drop boxes which were confirmed by Entergy Electric throughout the block."
Davis says witnesses identified the man who illegally connected the electrical lines.
"This individual admitted to staying in the home and was arrested by Fire Investigators on the scene."
The American Red Cross helped two people who had homes damaged.
There were no injuries reported.
