Morris County law enforcement offcials announced that Anthony Citro, 41, of Denville has been charged with first degree Murder, third degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and second degree Aggravated Arson.
Offcials said the defendant was charged on a warrant-complaint and remains in custody pending a court appearance.
According to police, at approximately 7:24 a.m. on May 17, law enforcement received a 9-1-1 call regarding a fire at 37 Chestnut Hill Drive East.
Upon arrival to the scene, law enforcement officers located Citro outside the residence, with apparent blood on his clothing. Smoke was observed coming from the residence. Members of the Denville Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the fire, which was later determined to be incendiary.
While suppressing the fire, the body of a deceased female was located inside the residence. Police say the victim was identified as Ms. Eileen Citro, 68, the defendant’s mother. The cause of death has been ruled homicide by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The manner of death was determined to be sharp force injuries.
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200.