Man charged with arson, 4 officers injured in Woodbridge fire

Woodbridge police have charged a man with arson following a large fire that destroyed several homes in the city’s Menlo Park section early Thursday morning.

A fire at 86 McGuire St. was reported around 3 a.m. Officials say the fire destroyed 86 McGuire Street and also damaged five other homes nearby.

Neighbors told News 12 they woke up to the glow of the flames.

“It was a ball of fire, the house completely engulfed in flames. The fire did not go out for hours. And the house next to them caught fire,” said witness Lucero Contreras.

Officials say they quickly determined the fire was set intentionally. They say police officers located 57-year-old Anthony Burke, believed to be the owner of 86 McGuire St.

Officials say when officers confronted Burke, a struggle ensued. They say four police officers were injured while trying to arrest Burke and required medical attention. Officials also say Burked was treated for injuries sustained when he allegedly set the fire.

All were treated and released from the hospital.

The other residents affected by the fire are all accounted for and no other injuries have been reported.

Burke was charged with six counts of aggravated arson and six counts of aggravated assault.