Police: Binghamton Man Charged In Meth Fire

City police say a 36-year-old man faces two felony counts in connection with the blaze that left dozens of West Side apartment complex residents homeless.

Authorities say Daniel Kauchis of 259 Main Street has been charged with first-degree reckless endangerment and fourth-degree arson.

Investigators say Kauchis allegedly was cooking methamphetamine in his girlfriend's apartment late Saturday night.

Police say Kauchis was injured in an explosion that sparked the fire, forcing residents at 259 Main Street and at a neighboring apartment building out into the cold.

Kauchis sustained minor burns to his face, hand and leg in the small blast that occurred following a chemical reaction.

Kauchis was taken into custody Sunday. He was arraigned in Binghamton city court and sent to Broome County Jail.

Detectives say no one else is expected to be charged in the case.

The American Red Cross was assisting some of those left homeless by the fire.

Fire department officials say Kauchis was the only person reported injured as a result of the blaze.

The neighboring apartment buildings sustained fire damage and extensive water damage. Officials say they believe the buildings cannot be salvaged.