MANCHESTER — Police in Manchester responded on May 8 to reports of multiple overnight fires around Merrimack, Middle, and Pleasant Streets.
Fire officials, who were present at the scenes, suspect the fires were set intentionally.
The fires occurred near residential areas with flammable materials discovered nearby.
In one instance, a propane grill was utilized, while another fire involved items arranged on a deck before being set ablaze.
During the investigation, authorities were informed of a male seen carrying a white plastic bag in the vicinity of the fires.
This information led to the apprehension of Nicholas Knee, a 41-year-old Manchester man without a fixed address.
Knee has been charged with three felony counts of arson and one count of attempted arson, following the establishment of probable cause.
Manchester Police and Fire are currently investigating additional fires that have occurred in the same area.
They urge anyone with information to contact the Manchester Fire Marshal Division at (603)669-2256 or Detective Ryan Heile at (603) 792-5534.
