Two men charged after Theresa structure fire and burglary investigation
New York State Police said two men were arrested and charged in connection with an intentionally set structure fire and burglary reported Nov. 4 in the town of Theresa.
By Jessica Hale, ClickNNY North Country Desk
Two men were arrested after a structure fire and burglary investigation in the town of Theresa, New York State Police announced Nov. 6. The fire was reported at about 12:53 p.m. Nov. 4 at 36611 County Route 46.
State Police and the Jefferson County Fire and Emergency Management Fire Origin and Cause Investigation Team determined that the fire was intentionally set. Investigators said the two men entered the structure unlawfully and took currency, jewelry and miscellaneous household items.
A 47 year old male, was charged with third-degree burglary, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, fourth-degree arson and false personation. State Police said the weapon-possession charge is based on a prior conviction. A 25 year was also charged with third-degree burglary and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
Both men were found with throwing stars, State Police said. The release did not indicate whether the weapons were used in the incident.
State Police said troopers were traveling to the scene when they learned that two men had been seen riding bicycles in the area. Troopers found both men nearby. The charges are allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The 47 year old male was arraigned in Jefferson County Centralized Arraignment Part Court and remanded to the Jefferson County Jail without bail, State Police said. The 25 year old male was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to return to Town of Theresa Court on Nov. 16, 2026. That date should be confirmed with the court at 315-628-4148. Trooper Jennifer Jiron is the State Police contact at 315-366-6000.
The investigation involved the Theresa, Philadelphia and Evans Mills fire departments, along with the county fire investigation team. The Jefferson County Office of Fire and Emergency Management operates the county team from Watertown.
The Town of Theresa is in Jefferson County, about 30 minutes from Watertown and Fort Drum, and has a population of about 2,950. The case follows a November 2025 arson arrest in Philadelphia that also involved the county investigation team and State Police. In September 2023, a mobile home fire at Indian River Estates on Eddy Road in Theresa was investigated; that case was not linked to this investigation.
The next scheduled court appearance listed by State Police is Noah Ayers' Nov. 16 appearance in Town of Theresa Court. Updates may also be obtained from New York State Police at 315-366-6000.
Reported by ClickNNY and reviewed by an editor before publication.
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