Binghamton Apartment Building Damaged in Suspected Arson Fire

A blaze of suspicious origin forced several people out of a large apartment building on Binghamton's South Side.

The fire at 1282 Vestal Avenue was reported around 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

There were no immediate reports of injuries as a result of the blaze in the building just west of the former High Street United Methodist Church.

Flames could be seen coming from the rear section of the structure's second floor.

One resident said someone set the fire but he did not elaborate. Fire and police on the scene called for detectives minutes after they arrived.

The blaze was brought under control by firefighters after a short time. Vestal Avenue was closed between Mill Street and High Street during the firefighting operations.

The Red Cross was called to assist several people who lived in the apartment house.

Property records indicated there are six apartments in the building.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

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