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Baltimore Man Charged in 2022 Stricker Street Fire That Killed Three Firefighters

Prosecutors say enhanced image analysis enabled the case to move forward.

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"A Moment of Sacrifice and Honor, Jan. 24, 2022 – In Loving Memory of Lieutenant Paul Butrim, Lieutenant Kelsey Sadler, Firefighter/Paramedic Kenny Lacayo – An expression of love from the Mount Clare community" is posted in white letters on a red sign at the site of the vacant rowhouse fire at 205 S. Stricker Street, where three Baltimore City Fire Department firefighters died in January 2022. Monday, Jan. 23, 2023. (Karl Merton Ferron/Baltimore Sun Staff)
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Overview

  • James Barnett, 57, is charged with second-degree arson, three counts each of second-degree (depraved-heart) murder and involuntary manslaughter, and reckless endangerment.
  • A judge ordered Barnett held without bail, with a bail review scheduled Monday in Baltimore City District Court.
  • Charging documents cite enhanced analysis of surveillance footage using MATLAB Image Processing Toolbox that detected flashes consistent with a butane lighter while Barnett was inside.
  • Prosecutors identify the fallen firefighters as Lt. Paul Butrim, Lt. Kelsey Sadler and Firefighter/EMT Kenny Lacayo, and note permanent injuries to Firefighter/EMT John McMaster.
  • Officials say persistent ATF and local investigation led to the charges, and the fatal blaze previously prompted procedural changes in the fire department and the resignation of then–Chief Niles Ford.