Story perspectives

Arsonist Charged After Fire Injures Firefighter, Stalking Neighbors

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Beitar Illit, Israel, on February 1, a 30-year-old man attempted to kidnap a 12-year-old boy but poured a flammable substance on him and was arrested.
In Staten Island, Matthew Brower, 32, has been charged with arson after he set fire to his apartment while stalking a neighbor.
The blaze injured a firefighter and required emergency services to rescue two occupants from the building.
Brower faces additional charges, including stalking and harassment.

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Story summary

In Beitar Illit, Israel, on February 1, a 30-year-old man attempted to kidnap a 12-year-old boy but poured a flammable substance on him and was arrested.
In Staten Island, Matthew Brower, 32, has been charged with arson after he set fire to his apartment while stalking a neighbor.
The blaze injured a firefighter and required emergency services to rescue two occupants from the building.
Brower faces additional charges, including stalking and harassment.