OLEAN — A 42-year-old woman has been charged with criminally negligent homicide and arson in connection with a fatal apartment fire that killed a 76-year-old resident.
Diane M. Casciani was arrested after investigators determined the fire at 137 N. 9th St. was intentionally set, according to the Olean Police Department.
The fire was reported at approximately 5:30 p.m. and was responded to by Olean City Fire Fighters and police.
Firefighters found Carole Landrau, 76, dead inside the upper apartment after extinguishing the fire and gaining entry to the building.
Casciani had been staying at the apartment and was charged with criminally negligent homicide, second-degree arson and first-degree reckless endangerment.
A male resident was injured during the fire and was taken to Olean General Hospital, where he was treated for burns and released.
The Criminal Investigation unit worked with fire investigators to determine the cause of the fire.
Casciani was transported to the Cattaraugus County Jail to await court proceedings.
