NORTHAMPTON, MA — A 16-year-old juvenile was arrested after an American flag was set on fire at the United States Post Office on Bridge Street on Oct. 21.
Officers from the Northampton Police Department responded to a report of a fire at the post office, located at 37 Bridge Street, at approximately 7:07 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers observed the American flag was lowered but still attached to the flagpole in front of the post office.
Officers noted an additional black flag adjacent to it, attached at approximately the same height.
Several areas of the American flag appeared to be burning simultaneously, as if sparks had ignited multiple sections.
The suspect fled the scene but was apprehended by responding officers.
The juvenile has been charged with vandalizing property, burning personal property, disorderly conduct and setting fire in the open.
Northampton Fire Rescue quickly extinguished the fire, preventing further damage.
