NICHOLS, N.Y. — New York State Police announced Thursday evening that an arrest was made following the fire in a barn at the Tioga Downs Casino.
According to police, Boyd Fenton, a 32-year-old-man from Athens, PA, went into the barn Thursday morning and intentionally set the fire. Police have not said if they have identified a motive, or how exactly the fire was started.
Over two-dozen racehorses died, and a person who entered the burning barn to try to save the horses was transported to a hospital with second-degree burns.
Fenton was charged with Arson, Burglary, Criminal Mischief, and Assault. He was arraigned Thursday afternoon and is locked up in the Tioga County Correctional Facility.
The fire caused several thousands of dollars in damage.
State Police say the investigation is ongoing.
Tioga Downs Casino posted a statement thanking the first responders and community for their support.