(WARRENSVILLE HEIGHTS) - David Chislton was charged with aggravated arson, aggravated menacing, domestic violence, inducing panic, and other charges in Bedford Municipal Court. Warrensville Heights police arrested Chislton after he allegedly set fire to the second floor unit of an apartment building at 4907 Banbury Ct. The fire caused severe structural damage, according to Ben Brown, the city’s interim Building Commissioner.
Mayor Bradley D. Sellers convened a meeting with city directors, victims, and community partners at the Warrensville Heights Civic Center to discuss plans for moving forward. Mayor Sellers outlined plans for the families which include case management and referral services with the American Red Cross. Cleveland Metropolitan Housing Authority representatives spoke to the families about available housing options as well.
Additionally, the city spoke with the general managers at each of its apartment buildings and identified the number of vacancies within each to provide options for available housing. Pet Palace on Richmond Road was named as a resource for victims that own pets.
Pastor R. A. Vernon of the Word Church spoke to the residents, and mentioned that the Word Church would provide clothing for all of the children affected.
Donald Jolly, Superintendent of Warrensville Heights City School District spoke at the meeting about the arrangements that have been made for the children within the school district, which include provisions for school uniforms for middle and high schoolers, and temporary transportation to and from school.
The Civic Center is still temporarily serving as a crisis center for the displaced, where the city is providing meals and snacks. Donations are welcomed. A donation page which outlines specific donation needs has been added to the City of Warrensville Heights website, and will be updated frequently.