Massachusetts woman accused of setting fire at housing complex, displacing 20+, captured in Bristol County

PLAINVILLE—A resident at a Messenger Street apartment complex has been charged with arson and other offenses in connection with an early morning fire that displaced more than 20 of her neighbors, said Plainville Fire Chief Robert Skinner, Plainville Police Chief James Floyd, and State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine.

The Plainville Fire Department responded to 71 Messenger Street at about 5:15 Monday morning for a report of a fire with residents possibly trapped. The shift commander ordered a working fire assignment, with a full recall bringing back off-duty personnel and mutual aid crews from North Attleborough, Foxboro, Wrentham, Norfolk, Franklin, and Bellingham.

Firefighters were able to contain the fire to one apartment, but extensive smoke and heat damage spread throughout apartment building. After several residents were evaluated for smoke inhalation, no serious injuries were reported, and one pet was rescued and treated by EMS.

Chief Skinner noted that a secondary egress was added to the second and third floors of the building in recent years – a change that made a significant and positive difference in the outcome of the event.

The origin and cause of the fire are being investigated by the Plainville Fire Department, Plainville Police Department, and State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office. Based on an examination of the scene, witness interviews, and additional evidence, investigators determined that the fire had been intentionally set. They further identified 61-year-old Heather A. MacKinnon as the responsible party.

The Plainville Police Department undertook a search for MacKinnon and later located her in North Attleborough. Plainville Police took her into custody and charged her with arson of a dwelling, malicious destruction of property, and disorderly conduct. She will be arraigned in Wrentham District Court.