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Fanwood Neighbor William Ahle Charged With Murder in July House Fire That Killed 82-Year-Old

Investigators are seeking witnesses who discussed the incident with the suspect.

Overview

  • Union County prosecutors announced Ahle’s arrest on Wednesday, months after the fatal blaze at Virginia Cranwell’s home on Kempshall Terrace.
  • He faces counts of first-degree murder, first-degree felony murder, first-degree burglary and second-degree aggravated arson.
  • Authorities say the fire was intentionally set and the medical examiner ruled Cranwell’s death a homicide.
  • Ahle had previously told officials he ran into the burning house to try to rescue his neighbor and he was treated for severe burns at a Livingston burn center.
  • He is being held at Middlesex County Jail as officials withhold any motive and ask anyone who spoke with him about the fire to contact the Homicide Task Force.