LEONARDTOWN, Md. (July 3, 2009)—Deputy State Fire Marshals have charged a 45-year old Leonardtown man with malicious burning 2nd degree. The charge placed against the man was a result of a July 2, 6:00 p.m. fire.
Investigators determined that Kent Richard Luppino, arrived at his estranged wife's home in the 42000 block of Medley's Neck, where a verbal confrontation occurred between the two. Luppino at the time was in violation of a peace order which prevented him from coming to the house.
Witnesses said Luppino appeared intoxicated and he intentionally started a fire in an 8' by 8' aluminum shed located behind the house. When deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office arrived, Luppino fled on foot but was quickly taken into custody.
Firefighters from Leonardtown Fire Company arrived and had the fire under control within minutes. Damage to the shed has been estimated to be less than $1,000.00.
Luppino was taken to the St. Mary's County Detention where he was awaiting an initial appearance before a district court commissioner.