The Passaic County Prosector’s Office and Paterson Fire Chief Brian McDermott announced that based upon an investigation by the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, the Paterson Fire Department, and the Paterson Police Department, Mr. Ertugrul Abaci, 57, from Paterson was arrested today in relation to an investigation that began on June 9.
Police say Mr. Abaci is charged with two counts of Aggravated Arson, Second Degree.
According to officials, at approximately 1:51 p.m., police and fire officials responded to a one-alarm fire at a multi-family residence located at 431 Sussex Street in the City of Paterson.
Police say all occupants were able to safely evacuate.
However, five residents were displaced as a result of the fire. Based on the joint investigation, Mr. Abaci was charged.
Mr. Abaci will appear at Central Judicial Processing Court on September 18.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation.
Despite this accusation, defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact them on their tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO or contact the Paterson Police Department at (973) 321-1111.