WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County District Attorney’s Office, in collaboration with the Easttown Township Police Department, has announced the arrest of Kathryn Frankel, 41, from Berwyn. Frankel faces charges of arson, criminal mischief, and related offenses for allegedly setting her residence on fire. She was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Mackenzie W. Smith on July 24, 2024, with bail set at $25,000.
Authorities responded to a fire at Frankel’s home on the 400 block of Leopard Road at around 10:42 a.m. on July 23, 2024. Upon arrival, responders saw smoke pouring from all three floors of the house. Frankel was reportedly the only person present and was seen wandering around the property before emergency personnel arrived. First responders noted she was covered in soot, and her hair appeared singed. A cigarette lighter was found nearby, and a K9 unit detected ignitable substances on her clothing and within the residence.
Assistant Fire Marshal Randall Patton determined that the fire was intentionally set, with at least one point of origin. This incident follows a previous fire at the same location on May 1, 2024, which authorities are now re-evaluating in light of the new evidence.
The Easttown Township Police Department leads the ongoing investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Acito and Kaitlyn Michalek have been assigned to prosecute the case.
All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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