Two Connecticut men have been arrested after a home invasion and arson led to the death of a man in Fitchburg, Massachusetts.
The victim was identified Monday as 24-year-old Kevin Cabrera of Fitchburg.
The suspects, 37-year-old Ramon Milan and 32-year-old Jose Crespo, both of Bridgeport, were arraigned Monday in Bridgeport District Court on fugitive from justic charges. They did not agree to be returned to Massachusetts and their cases have been continued to Jan. 3.
Fitchburg Police and Fire Departments first responded to reports of a fire on Laurel Street late Saturday night.
After further investigation, authorities learned that two masked men, one of whom had a gun, entered an apartment and started the fire after attempting to rob three people inside. Police believe the suspects broke into the house, assaulted the victims, tied them up, and then set the house on fire. The suspects concentrated their assualt on one of the victims while the other two managed to escape. One victim remained trapped inside and later died.
Milan and Crespo are charged with assault with a deadly weapon, arson of a building, and armed home invasion.
Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. called the crime, "horrific" in a press conference held Sunday. His office is working to secure warrants to bring them back to Fitchburg to face charges.
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Fitchburg Police believe the act was not random and that the victims were targeted, but the investigation is still ongoing.
