Jahan Kia. Credit : Nassau County Police Department
A quiet neighborhood in Long Island was rocked by tragedy on Monday evening after a house fire killed three pets and injured two firefighters. Now, a local man is facing serious charges.
According to Nassau County police, 40-year-old Jahan Kia was arrested after flames broke out at a home in Plainview around 7:50 p.m. on May 26. Authorities say Kia, a tenant of the house, allegedly started the fire on purpose in the basement — though they haven’t revealed why.
Thankfully, no people were inside the home at the time. But the fire claimed the lives of two dogs and a cat. Two firefighters also suffered injuries while battling the blaze — one inhaled smoke, and the other was burned on the hand. Both were taken to the hospital for treatment.
Police have charged Kia with third-degree arson, second-degree criminal mischief, and animal torture. It’s not yet clear if he has a lawyer or how he plans to plead.
The incident has left the community shaken and heartbroken over the loss of the animals — and it’s raised questions about what led to the horrifying act.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to piece together more details about the case.
